Reps Grill Finance Chiefs Over Poor Execution of 2025 Budget

Members of the House of Representatives have demanded explanations from top government officials over what they described as the disappointing performance of the 2025 budget.

During a tense engagement, lawmakers questioned the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, and the head of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, over delays and shortfalls in budget implementation.

The legislators expressed concern that many capital projects captured in the budget have either stalled or suffered due to inadequate funding releases. They noted that contractors who had completed projects were still awaiting payment, raising fears about the credibility of government commitments.

The session also highlighted frustration within the Assembly over recurring gaps between approved budgets and actual execution, with some lawmakers warning that continued lapses could undermine economic growth and public confidence.

In response, the officials acknowledged the challenges but pointed to revenue constraints and ongoing efforts to improve funding flows. However, the explanations failed to fully satisfy the lawmakers, who insisted on stronger accountability and timely disbursement of funds for critical projects.