By Mercy Gadia Adi
The House of Representatives has sharply criticized the Presidency for failing to comply with the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007 regarding the timely submission of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Policy Paper (FSP). This rebuke came during a session on Wednesday, where a motion sponsored by Hon. Clement Jimbo highlighted the breach, urging the Executive to adhere to its legal obligations.
The Fiscal Responsibility Act mandates that the Federal Government present the MTEF to the National Assembly at least four months before the start of the new fiscal year. Hon. Jumbo emphasized the importance of this legislation for ensuring prudent management of national resources and maintaining macroeconomic stability.
The House expressed concern that the Executive’s non-compliance undermines the National Assembly’s ability to fulfill its constitutional duties. Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution grant the legislature the authority to investigate the conduct of any government entity, particularly in matters of fiscal management.
In a decisive resolution, the House urged the Executive to submit the 2025 Budget Proposal without further delay and mandated the joint Committees on National Planning and Economic Development, Appropriation, and Finance to ensure compliance within two weeks. This move marks a significant step in reinforcing accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s fiscal operations.