The House of Representatives has summoned top federal financial officials to explain the continued delay in payments to contractors for verified projects completed since 2024.
Those summoned include Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu; Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Dr. Yemi Cardoso; Accountant-General of the Federation, Babatunde Ogunjimi; and Auditor-General for the Federation, Shaakaa Chira.
The resolution was passed during Thursday’s plenary following a motion by Hon. Ezechi Nnamdi, representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency of Delta State.
Hon. Nnamdi expressed concern that despite adequate capital allocations in the 2024 Appropriation Act, many Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have failed to pay contractors for certified projects completed since October 2024. He noted that capital releases under the 2024 budget remain below 50%, resulting in stalled infrastructure projects and financial strain on contractors.
“The non-payment has delayed constituency projects, led to job losses, and eroded public trust in government,” Nnamdi said, warning that the situation could spark mass protests and legal actions.
In response, the House directed the officials to appear on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, to provide explanations and timelines for settling the outstanding obligations.
Furthermore, the House mandated its Committees on Public Accounts and Budget and Economic Planning to launch a joint investigation into the funding delays and accountability gaps within MDAs. The committees are expected to report back within four weeks with their findings and legislative recommendations.
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