A coalition of civil‑society organisations has called on Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and the Accountant General of the Federation, Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, to release funds earmarked in the 2025 capital budget for indigenous contractors. The Coalition for Equity in Public Contracts (CEPC) welcomed a recent resolution brokered by Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, which aims to address delayed payments to contractors, but stressed that immediate action is needed to turn the resolution into tangible results.
The coalition’s convener, Dr Salisu Garba, noted that indigenous contractors have executed projects across the country in good faith, trusting the government to honour its obligations under the Appropriation Act. However, many contractors are now struggling to repay loans taken to finance these projects because of the payment delays. CEPC warned that continued neglect of indigenous contractors would erode confidence in government processes and deepen economic hardship.
Indigenous contractors play a crucial role in delivering infrastructure and creating jobs in Nigeria. Delaying their payments would have far‑reaching consequences, including job losses and the short‑changing of communities. The coalition emphasized that the capital budget is essential for the nation’s development and that selective application of its provisions is unacceptable. It reminded the National Assembly of its oversight responsibility and cautioned that Nigerians will hold the legislature accountable if the agreements brokered by the Deputy Speaker collapse.
The ripple effects of delayed payments extend to the broader economy, with banks already tightening credit to indigenous firms. CEPC urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure that his administration’s pledge of fiscal discipline is reinforced by swift action from the Finance Minister and the Accountant General. Respecting lawful obligations to citizens, the coalition argued, is essential for reforming the economy and winning the trust of both citizens and investors.
As the 2025 fiscal year progresses, the credibility of both the executive and the legislature is at stake, with contractors, civil society and ordinary Nigerians awaiting evidence that government promises will be matched by decisive action.
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