The Network for the Actualization of Social Growth and Viable Development (NEFGAD) has condemned the National Assembly’s move to further extend the implementation of the 2024 Appropriation Act, describing it as a dangerous precedent that encourages fiscal indiscipline.
In a statement issued Tuesday in Abuja, NEFGAD’s Country Head, Mr. Akingunola Omoniyi, criticized what he termed a “repeated and unconstitutional extension” of the national budget, warning that it undermines Nigeria’s fiscal structure and democratic accountability.
This latest criticism follows the Assembly’s consideration of a second extension bill for the 2024 budget. The first extension had already prolonged its implementation to June 2025.
“The National Assembly’s oversight responsibility on public finance is being badly compromised,” the statement read. “Budgets are time-bound instruments. Referring to it as a ‘2024 Budget’ beyond December 31, 2024, violates constitutional provisions and misleads the public.”
NEFGAD emphasized that the Constitution’s fiscal calendar is designed to ensure transparency and accountability, and extending budget implementation beyond the legal timeframe erodes institutional discipline.
“A budget is a financial estimate prepared following due diligence. If implementation falters, the National Assembly should demand accountability, not simply extend deadlines,” Omoniyi added.
The group urged lawmakers to either halt the extension or revise the budget’s title to reflect its altered timeline, stressing that the continued use of “2024 Appropriation Act” beyond its expiration is deceptive and unlawful.
While acknowledging the Assembly’s power to amend laws, NEFGAD cautioned that such authority must be exercised within constitutional limits and in the national interest.
It called on the legislature to recommit to its oversight role and uphold the principles of fiscal responsibility essential for economic stability and good governance
