The House of Representatives has expressed concern regarding the Executive, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, for the delay in submitting the 2025 budget proposal to the National Assembly.
The lower chamber has emphasized that the Executive's non-compliance with Section 11(1)(b) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 is impeding the National Assembly's ability to fulfill its functions as outlined in Section 88(2)(b).
In response to this issue, the lawmakers have called upon the Executive to adhere to Section 11(1)(b) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007. Furthermore, they have tasked the committees on National Planning and Economic Development, Appropriation, and Finance with ensuring compliance within a two-week timeframe.
This decision was made following the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance during the Wednesday plenary session, presented by Clement Jimbo.
Jimbo, in moving the motion, underscored the significance of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 in ensuring the prudent management of the nation's resources, long-term macroeconomic stability, and enhanced accountability and transparency in fiscal operations. He also highlighted the requirement in Section 11(1)(b) for the Federal Government to prepare and lay before the National Assembly the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) at least four months before the commencement of the next financial year.
Additionally, Jimbo referenced the constitutional provisions in Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution, as well as Section 30(1) of FRA 2007, particularly emphasizing the authority of each House of the National Assembly to direct investigations into matters within its legislative purview, including the conduct of government entities responsible for executing laws and managing appropriated funds.
The House has resolved to urge the Executive to comply with Section 11(1)(b) and promptly submit the 2025 Budget Proposal to the National Assembly without further delays.