BudgIT has urged the National Assembly to address significant irregularities in the proposed 2025 national budget, emphasizing the need for transparency and alignment with national priorities such as job creation, poverty reduction, and inclusive economic growth.
In a public statement signed by its Communications Associate, Nancy Odimegwu, BudgIT raised concerns about the exclusion of key financial details, including the budgets of over 60 government-owned enterprises (GOEs) such as the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). Additionally, the breakdowns for some Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), like the National Judicial Council and TETFUND, were notably absent.
The organization criticized the allocation of ₦2.49 trillion to five regional development commissions under “personnel costs,” arguing that this classification obscures operational expenses and undermines accountability. BudgIT also flagged the non-budgetary provision for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, warning that funding such projects later could disrupt allocations for critical initiatives.
BudgIT highlighted discrepancies in the federal government’s approach to governance costs, referencing recent announcements on retirement packages for military generals, which contradict President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to reducing public sector spending.
The organization further cautioned the National Assembly against increasing the oil price benchmark to accommodate budget insertions, a practice it has previously criticized for undermining the executive’s fiscal intentions. BudgIT noted that over 7,400 capital projects amounting to ₦2.24 trillion were added to the 2024 budget, often lacking feasibility and proper design.
Appealing for a responsible review process, BudgIT urged lawmakers to prioritize the national interest over personal agendas to ensure the approved 2025 budget supports economic growth, macroeconomic stability, and the welfare of Nigerians.
