The House of Representatives urges the Federal Government to transmit the Medium Term Expenditure Framework for timely budget preparation.
In a decisive move on Wednesday, the House of Representatives called on the Federal Government to urgently submit the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) to the National Assembly.
This request aims to provide lawmakers with ample time to thoroughly prepare for the 2025 Appropriation Bill upon its submission.
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The resolution emerged after a motion of urgent public importance was put forward by Mr Clement Jimbo, the representative for Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State.
He voiced the collective frustration of lawmakers from various parties regarding the consistent delays in presenting annual budget proposals, which hampers their ability to conduct proper scrutiny and oversight.
Jimbo highlighted that Section 11(1) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007 mandates the Federal Government to prepare and present an MTEF no later than four months before the commencement of the next financial year.
He expressed concern that the executive’s non-compliance with this law is undermining the National Assembly’s ability to fulfil its constitutional duties.
According to Jimbo, the sections of the 1999 Constitution concerning legislative power and budgetary oversight are being compromised due to these delays.
In his remarks, Billy Osawaru, a member from Edo State representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), emphasised that late submissions of budget proposals enable Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to shortchange Nigerians.
He stressed the importance of adhering to the four-month timeframe for reviewing budget estimates to ensure accountability.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda also supported the motion, underscoring that timely delivery of budget estimates is crucial for effective legislative oversight.
He noted the challenges faced in completing the 2023 budget due to rushed timelines and reiterated that the MTEF should have been submitted by now to avoid similar issues in the future.
Bob Solomon, representing Abua/Ahoada East Federal Constituency in Rivers State, commended Jimbo’s motion and called on his colleagues to back it.
He asserted that the Appropriation Bill is of utmost importance and that lawmakers should refuse to consider any proposals submitted without sufficient time for review.
In response to the motion’s adoption, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, who presided over the plenary session, urged the Federal Government to comply with the stipulated timeline and submit the 2025 budget proposal without further delay.
The House further mandated the Committees on National Planning and Economic Development, Appropriation, and Finance to ensure compliance within two weeks.
As the House of Representatives seeks to enhance its legislative process, the timely submission of the MTEF stands as a critical factor in achieving effective governance and resource management in Nigeria.
