Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has dismissed criticisms over delays in rolling out the 2025 budget.
He rather lauded President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its steadfast focus on transparency and sustainable economic growth.
Speaking yesterday in Abuja, Agbese commended the leadership of the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, for meticulously planning Nigeria’s economy to align with the country’s economic posture.
Recall that the 2025 budget was signed into law in December 2024, it earmarked N4.91 trillion for defence, N4.06 trillion for infrastructure, N3.5 trillion for education and N2.4 trillion for health.
Eight months into the fiscal year, several hurdles have slowed capital projects, prompting public frustration and calls for an extension into 2026.
Agbese said, “It’s the capital component that has been delayed, but as a parliament, we monitored the executive on the implementation of the entire budget and remain optimistic that all is well.
“Some see delays, but I see diligence and how Bagudu masterminds fiscal responsibility, verifying expenditures to align with global standards.”
He noted that the minister’s work was paving the way for a seamless budget rollout by late September.
Agbese commended Bagudu’s visionary leadership and operational brilliance, crediting him with transformative reforms.