The National Assembly has postponed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill, initially scheduled for Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
This announcement has sparked curiosity, as no reason was given for the sudden change.
The new date for the presentation is now Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who earlier confirmed the initial date, made no additional comment on the shift.
Reports indicate that the budget, estimated at a staggering N47 trillion, will be presented at the House of Representatives Chamber in Abuja.
A circular addressed to National Assembly staff confirmed the rescheduling but offered no explanation.
The circular, signed by Dr. Umar Alkali, Secretary of Human Resources, stated, “I am directed to inform you that the presentation of the 2025 Budget by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been postponed to Wednesday, December 18.”
It further instructed staff to return to regular duties on Tuesday while maintaining controlled entry protocols for Wednesday.
The sudden postponement has fueled speculation among Nigerians.
Some wonder if it points to last-minute adjustments to the N47 trillion budget, while others suspect political maneuvering.
President Tinubu’s budget presentation is considered critical as it outlines the government’s priorities for 2025.
The Appropriation Bill will reflect Tinubu’s strategies to address economic challenges, including high inflation, unemployment, and fuel subsidy reforms.
In recent weeks, the Tinubu administration has faced mounting pressure to provide solutions to Nigeria’s economic woes.
Critics argue that the government must demonstrate fiscal discipline and transparency in the upcoming budget.
Many also believe the postponement reflects deeper issues within the government.
“This delay raises questions about the readiness of the administration,” said political analyst Dr. Musa Ahmed.
He continued, “A budget is the backbone of governance. Any hiccup at this stage might signal disorganization.”
The delay also comes amid growing unrest among Nigerians over rising costs of living.
With food prices and transportation costs soaring, citizens are eager to see what relief the government can offer in 2025.
Labor unions, who recently suspended nationwide protests over economic hardship, have called for increased wages and improved living conditions.
The postponement adds to the already tense atmosphere in the capital, Abuja.
However, some believe the rescheduling could allow the President to finalize key details.
“It’s better to postpone and get it right than rush and deliver an incomplete budget,” said economist Grace Oladipo.
The stakes are high as the National Assembly prepares to scrutinize the 2025 budget proposal.
The legislature has been urged to prioritize the needs of ordinary Nigerians in their deliberations.
Senator Akpabio assured the public that the Assembly would provide thorough oversight.
