House of Representatives Criticizes Executive Over Delays in 2025 Budget Submission

The House of Representatives has expressed dissatisfaction with the Executive, led by President Bola Tinubu, over delays in submitting the 2025 budget proposal to the National Assembly. The lower chamber highlighted that the delay infringes upon the time needed for the National Assembly to fulfill its duties as outlined in Section 88(2)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution, emphasizing that the Executive’s non-compliance with Section 11(1)(b) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 is problematic.

The lawmakers have called on the Executive to comply with Section 11(1)(b) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007. To ensure compliance, the House has mandated its committees on National Planning and Economic Development, Appropriation, and Finance to monitor the situation and enforce adherence within two weeks.

This decision came after the House adopted a motion of urgent public importance, presented during Wednesday’s plenary by Representative Clement Jimbo. In his motion, Jimbo underscored the significance of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007, which aims to promote prudent management of the nation’s resources while ensuring long-term macroeconomic stability. He emphasized that the Act is designed to enhance accountability and transparency in fiscal operations through a medium-term fiscal policy framework and the establishment of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission.

Jimbo further highlighted that Section 11(1)(b) of the Act requires the Federal Government to prepare and present the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) to the National Assembly no later than four months before the commencement of the next financial year. This framework should cover the upcoming three financial years, providing a crucial foundation for the nation’s economic planning and fiscal management.

The House’s call for timely compliance is a response to concerns that the delay in submitting the budget proposal compromises the National Assembly’s ability to thoroughly review and exercise its constitutional functions. The lawmakers stressed the importance of adhering to the guidelines set by the Fiscal Responsibility Act, as these measures are essential for promoting transparency, accountability, and macroeconomic stability.

The House’s directive reflects its commitment to ensuring that the Executive fulfills its obligations and that the legislative process proceeds smoothly. The lawmakers’ emphasis on the two-week deadline for compliance demonstrates their resolve to hold the Executive accountable and maintain the legislative timeline necessary for effective governance.