CSOs urge timely release of 2025 capital budget funds

A coalition of civil society organisations has called on the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Accountant General of the Federation, Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, to begin the disbursement of funds under the 2025 capital budget to indigenous contractors. The Coalition for Equity in Public Contracts (CEPC), in a […]

A coalition of civil society organisations has called on the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Accountant General of the Federation, Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, to begin the disbursement of funds under the 2025 capital budget to indigenous contractors.

The Coalition for Equity in Public Contracts (CEPC), in a statement issued in Abuja on Friday by its Convener, Dr. Salisu Garba, said it welcomed the resolution facilitated by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, between the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Accountant General over delayed payments to contractors.

The group, however, urged that the agreement be followed by swift implementation, noting that many contractors had executed projects across the country and were awaiting payment.

“Contractors have carried out projects under the Appropriation Act in good faith, and timely disbursement will help sustain infrastructure delivery, employment, and economic stability,” Garba said.

The coalition emphasised the importance of indigenous contractors in driving local development, highlighting their contributions to road construction, schools, hospitals, and other public works. It noted that delays in payments could disrupt economic activity, affect job creation, and reduce confidence in government processes.

The group also underscored the oversight role of the National Assembly, urging lawmakers to ensure compliance with agreements reached between the executive and contractors.

According to the coalition, prompt payment would also support the financial sector by easing credit conditions for contractors and preventing liquidity challenges in the wider economy.

The CEPC further called on President Bola Tinubu to reinforce his administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline by ensuring adherence to lawful budgetary provisions.

“As the 2025 fiscal year progresses, contractors, civil society, and citizens are looking forward to seeing government commitments translated into visible action,” the statement said.