The House of Representatives has summoned key economic and financial officials over the persistent non-payment of contractors for certified federal projects executed since October 2024.
At the center of the probe are Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Yemi Cardoso, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Atiku Bagudu, Accountant-General of the Federation Babatunde Ogunjimi, and Auditor-General for the Federation Shaakaa Chira.
The decision came during Thursday’s plenary session after a motion moved by Hon. Ezechi Nnamdi, representing Delta State, was adopted.
In his motion, Nnamdi expressed deep concern that despite budgetary allocations under the 2024 Appropriation Act, many Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have failed to release more than 50% of funds earmarked for capital projects. This, he said, has led to widespread project abandonment, severe financial strain on contractors, and a declining investor outlook on Nigeria’s infrastructure drive.
“The non-payment has critically affected the implementation of key constituency projects and risks triggering mass protests, legal actions, and a potential standstill in public service delivery,” Nnamdi warned.
In response, the House resolved to invite the affected officials to appear on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, to provide explanations and a specific timeline for the disbursement of outstanding verified payments.
Additionally, the House mandated its Committees on Public Accounts and Budget & Economic Planning to conduct a joint investigation into the systemic lapses responsible for the delay. The committees are to submit their findings and recommendations within four weeks to guide potential legislative interventions.
This move by the legislature highlights growing unease over fiscal transparency and project execution as Nigeria grapples with economic challenges and infrastructure needs.
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