Senate Finance Committee Declines to Consider Accountant-General’s 2026 Budget

The Senate Committee on Finance has declined to consider the 2026 budget proposal of the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, citing concerns over poor implementation of previous budgets and outstanding liabilities.

The warning was issued on Thursday during a budget defence session with the Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamseldeen Ogunjimi.

Committee Chairman, Senator Sani Musa, said lawmakers would not proceed with reviewing the 2026 proposal until they receive satisfactory assurances regarding improved performance.

“We are not going to take your budget until we are satisfied that your office is ready to do things that will make things work for Nigerians through expected assurances from you,” he stated.

Concerns Over Unpaid Contractors and Poor Releases

Lawmakers expressed frustration over what they described as inadequate fund releases under the 2025 budget and outstanding liabilities carried over from 2024.

According to the committee, more than N2.2 trillion is owed to contractors — a situation senators described as unacceptable and damaging to government credibility.

Senator Danjuma Goje questioned the management of public finances, particularly revenues generated following the removal of fuel subsidy and income reportedly exceeding targets from government-owned enterprises.

“Where is the money?” Goje asked, demanding clarity on treasury inflows and how increased revenues have been utilised.

He further noted that the National Assembly has received numerous complaints from unpaid contractors seeking intervention, describing the situation as embarrassing for both the legislature and the country.

The committee also revealed that some security agencies have raised concerns about inadequate funding due to poor budget releases.

Call for Budgeting Reform

Lawmakers urged an urgent review of the Federal Government’s envelope budgeting system, arguing that it has failed to deliver expected outcomes. They proposed a transition to a performance-based budgeting model to strengthen accountability and efficiency.

The Senate maintained that it would not consider the Accountant-General’s 2026 budget proposal until clear explanations and firm assurances are provided on improving implementation and ensuring timely fund releases.

Accountant-General’s Response

In his defence, Ogunjimi appealed to the committee to reconsider its position. He explained that his office can only disburse funds formally released to it and that delays are not entirely within his control.

He also disclosed that the government’s payment platform has experienced technical challenges but is currently undergoing expansion and upgrades to enhance capacity and efficiency.

The standoff highlights growing tensions between the legislature and fiscal authorities over budget execution and public financial management.