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Senate demands performance report on 2024 ,…Expectations for 2025…May Delay Presentation of 2026 budget

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By Hassan Taiye

Strong indication emerged Thursday in the Senate that presentation of budgetary proposals for 2026 fiscal year by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly will not happen soon.

This is as the Senate through its committee on Finance , directed the managers of the Nation’s economy to in two weeks time , furnish it with documented performance report on the 2024 budget implementation and expectations for the implementation of capital component of 2025 budget .

The Chairman of the Committee , Senator Mohammed Sani Musa ( Niger East), gave the directive after about one and half hours closed door meeting the, committee had with the Minister of Finance , Wale Edun , Accountant General of the Federation , Samsudeen Ogunjimi and Director – General of the Budget Office , Tanimu Yakubu .

According to him , the committee resolved that presentation of Medium Term Expenditure Framework ( MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper ( FSP ) for 2026 to 2029 fiscal years , can only follow after submission of the requested reports to it by the economy managers on the 23rd of this month .

He said : ” We have had the position at which the 2024 budget is, and what the position also of the 2025 budget. And the expectations we are having for the ministry to, as a matter of urgency, bring the MTEF for 2026 to 2029. And the minister has briefed us, and we have collectively agreed that we are making progress, but we need to make more progress.

“We have heard from the Accountant General, we have heard from the Director of Budgets, where we are with the budgets. The payments that have so far been released, the warrants that have so far been signed. And also, regarding the 2025 authority to incur the expenditure for agencies to be able to release their capital projects.

“We have all heard that, and we have agreed that we are making progress. And we expect that, with what Mr. President has done just this week, sending a letter to the National Assembly, requesting for more approvals to loans, to be able to see that the 2025 budget is also taking adequate care of.

“We have all agreed that we will want documented evidence of the performance of 2024, and our expectations for the 2025 budget, before we start talking about the MTEF for 2026.

“And the Honourable Minister of Finance has agreed to oblige us to give us that progress report. And we have agreed to reconvene, because this meeting is just adjourned. We are going to reconvene on the 23rd of October”

Earlier before the Committee went into closed door session with the economy managers , while the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the economy, Wale Edun said high performance is being recorded in the implementation of the capital component of 2024 budget and good performance for 2025 , the DG budget office said otherwise .

According to the DG budget office , during the two fiscal years ( 2024 &2025), budgetary implementation were somewhat turbulent as some of the underlying assumptions were not met .

He said : “We have indeed had a turbulent year — one in which most of the assumptions underpinning the 2024 and 2025 budgets turned out differently from projections.

“Oil revenue, assumed at $75 per barrel, fell short by between $10 and $15 due to global price fluctuations. Inflation also rose beyond projections, affecting borrowing costs and debt service performance, which significantly exceeded targets.

“Furthermore, the unforeseen fiscal implications of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2022 have compounded our challenges.

” Under the Act, 30% of gross oil revenue and 30% of oil and gas profits are retained for upstream operations, while the Federal Government also bears the NNPC’s operating costs. This has reduced the Federation Account allocation by nearly 70% of what used to accrue.

“In addition, crude oil output has been lower than projected in the MTEF approved by the National Assembly”.

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NGF Congratulates Governor Soludo On Re-Election

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Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has sent its hearty congratulations to Governor Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo (CON) on his victory at the Saturday gubernatorial election in Anambra State.

In a statement on Sunday that was signed by the forum’s chairman, and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Forum said the clear margin of victory underscored the popularity of the Governor and his programmes among Anambrarians.

“We are confident that this deserving victory will enable His Excellency to consolidate on his great achievements across different sectors,” according to the state.

“We also congratulate the people of Anambra and all the stakeholders on the orderly and peaceful conduct of the election — another proof that Nigerians have fully embraced democracy and rule of law as a choice form of governance. We also commend the Independent National Electoral Commission and the security agencies for the orderly electoral process so far.”

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2027 Guber: Chief.Aondoakaa, SAN, the man Benue is Rooting for

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Chief Mike Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, is a highly respected figure in Nigeria’s legal and political landscape. As a seasoned lawyer, industrialist, agriculturalist, investor, and philanthropist, he possesses a unique blend of skills and expertise that make him an exceptional candidate for public office. Currently, Aondoakaa serves as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, a prestigious title awarded to outstanding lawyers who have demonstrated exceptional competence and integrity in the practice of law.

Aondoakaa’s Impressive Background

Chief Aondoakaa’s background is marked by a series of impressive achievements. He holds an LL.B (Hons) degree in Common Law from the University of Maiduguri and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1986. He has worked as a lawyer, founded his own law firm, and served as the Secretary-General of the Benue Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture, Industries, and Mines. Aondoakaa’s experience extends beyond law, as he is also a successful agriculturalist and industrialist, with a focus on rice production.

Positions Held by Chief Aondoakaa, SAN

Aondoakaa has held various notable positions, including,
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice: He served in this role under President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s administration, showcasing his expertise in legal affairs and governance.
Minister of Special Duties Aondoakaa worked under President Goodluck Jonathan, further demonstrating his ability to serve in high-level government positions. Fellow of the International Dispute Resolution Institute, This prestigious fellowship recognizes Aondoakaa’s outstanding contributions to the field of dispute resolution.
Member of the Nigerian Bar Association Aondoakaa is an active member of the NBA, underscoring his commitment to the legal profession.
*Chairman of the Land Use Reform Committee, This role highlights Aondoakaa’s expertise in land management and reform.
Chairman of the Federal Executive Committee on the Review of 1999 Constitution, Aondoakaa played a key role in reviewing Nigeria’s constitution, demonstrating his understanding of the country’s governance framework.

Why Benue State Needs Aondoakaa as Governor in 2027

Benue State faces numerous challenges, including insecurity, economic instability, and inadequate infrastructure. Chief Aondoakaa’s leadership skills, experience, and expertise make him an ideal candidate to address these issues. Here are some reasons why Benue State needs Aondoakaa as governor in 2027:

Security Aondoakaa has emphasized the importance of security in Benue State, citing his experience as a former Attorney General and Minister of Justice. He has proposed community policing and collaboration with the Nigerian Police to tackle insecurity.

Agricultural Development As a mechanized farmer, Aondoakaa understands the potential of agriculture in driving economic growth. He has proposed creating farm settlements and providing support for farmers to increase food production and create jobs.

Youth Engagement Aondoakaa recognizes the importance of engaging youth in productive activities. He has proposed developing sporting activities, providing grants for youth empowerment, and creating job opportunities in agriculture and other sectors.

Chief Aondoakaaa, SAN and Mrs Patience Awubi Aondoakaa at the Conference
Infrastructure Development: Aondoakaa’s experience in governance and infrastructure development will enable him to prioritize projects that benefit Benue State, such as road construction and rehabilitation.

Inclusive Governance Aondoakaa has emphasized the importance of inclusive governance, citing his experience as a leader who has worked with diverse groups. He will ensure that all stakeholders are represented and involved in decision-making processes.

Chief Aondoakaa’s Vision for Benue State

Aondoakaa’s vision for Benue State is centered around peace, security, and economic development. He believes that a stable and secure environment is essential for growth and progress. His proposals for farm settlements, youth empowerment, and infrastructure development demonstrate his commitment to creating opportunities for all Benue citizens.

Aondoakaa’s Leadership Style

Aondoakaa’s leadership style is characterized by inclusivity, transparency, and accountability. He has emphasized the importance of working with all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, women, and youth, to develop and implement policies that benefit Benue State.

Chief Mike Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, is a highly qualified and experienced leader who possesses the skills and expertise needed to transform Benue State. His commitment to peace, security, and economic development makes him an ideal candidate for governor in 2027. With his inclusive leadership style and vision for Benue State, Aondoakaa is poised to make a positive impact on the state’s development.

If elected as governor, Aondoakaa’s policies and programs have the potential to positively impact Benue State in various ways, including:

Increased Food Production Aondoakaa’s agricultural development plans could lead to increased food production, improved food security, and economic growth.

Job Creation His proposals for youth empowerment and job creation could reduce unemployment and improve living standards.

Improved Infrastructure Aondoakaa’s focus on infrastructure development could lead to improved roads, increased access to healthcare and education, and enhanced economic opportunities.

The Future of Benue State

The future of Benue State looks bright with Aondoakaa’s leadership. His experience, expertise, and commitment to peace and development make him an ideal candidate to take the reins of governance in 2027. With his vision and leadership style, Benue State can look forward to a brighter future, characterized by peace, prosperity, and progress.

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PDP SET TO RECLAIM POWER IN BENUE COME 2027, ORTOM ASSURES PARTY MEMBERS

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The immediate past Governor of Benue State and leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Chief Samuel Ortom has reiterated his commitment to strengthening the party to reclaim power in the state, come 2027.

He stated this on Friday at his Judges Quarters residence in Makurdi while hosting members of the PDP G-14 and other critical stakeholders of the party from the 14 local government areas in Zones A and B parts of the state.

Chief Ortom reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP, dispelling speculations by what he described as “mischief makers” about his alleged plan to defect, stressing that the party would emerge stronger and united, ahead of the 2027 polls.

The former governor called on stakeholders to remain resolute and committed to rebuilding the PDP, stating that though he wouldn’t be contesting personally, he would stand solidly behind the party’s candidates to record victories, advising PDP aspirants to consult widely and not be discouraged by the wave of defections to the ruling party.

In his remarks, the leader of the PDP G-14, Dr. Laha Dzever, who spoke on behalf of the forum, pledged continued support and loyalty to Chief Ortom, appreciating what he described as his purposeful leadership.

Also speaking, the State Deputy Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Azua Ashongo, advised stakeholders in the various local government areas to present only credible candidates for the next elections. He noted that this was necessary to ensure the party’s victory and to sustain Chief Ortom’s efforts to strengthen the PDP. Ashongo also commended Ortom for his sacrifices for the party and urged others to emulate his example.

Similarly, Ambassador Chive Kaave assured Chief Ortom of the commitment of Zone A members of the party to align with his plans to return the party to power and promote development. Senator Fred Orti gave similar assurances on behalf of Zone B.

Others who spoke included Rt. Hon. William Ortyom, representing PDP members in the Benue State House of Assembly; Hon. Simon Anyamkande, for PDP chairmen in the 14 Tiv-speaking local governments; Mrs. Veronica Gajir, for women; and Joel Iyua Kôrinjô, for the youths.

The meeting was attended by serving and former members of the PDP National Executive Committee, former members of the Board of Trustees, local government party chairmen, national delegates, former aspirants, former government appointees, former council chairmen, National Assembly aspirants, members of the State Working Committee, and other party officials and stakeholders.

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