The Nigerian Senate has announced that the 2025 budget, valued at ₦49.7 trillion, will not be passed until at least January 31. This clarification comes after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu presented the appropriation bill to a joint session of the National Assembly on December 18. The president had urged lawmakers to fast-track the approval process.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, stated that the budget’s passage would require thorough deliberations and evaluations.
He explained that budget defence sessions with ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) would begin on January 7. These sessions are essential for scrutinizing the proposals and ensuring proper allocation of resources.
“The joint committees of the Senate and House of Representatives will start meeting with MDAs on January 7. Final report will be laid on January 31,” Senator Adaramodu confirmed.
The appropriation bill has already reached its second reading in both chambers of the National Assembly, marking significant progress in the legislative process. However, the timeline outlined by the Senate means the budget approval process will extend into late January.
