The Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation (BoF), Mr. Tanimu Yakubu, has assured that the implementation of the 2025 budget will commence by the end of September.
His statement comes amid concerns that the N54.99 trillion “Budget of Restoration” has remained unimplemented nearly nine months after passage.
Speaking at the Third Quarter Ministerial Stakeholders and Citizens Engagement Forum hosted by the Ministry of Budget and National Planning in Abuja, Yakubu emphasized that effective execution and prudent fiscal management will determine the budget’s success.
He underlined the importance of citizen participation, describing Nigerians as the ultimate owners of public resources.
Yakubu also highlighted revenue challenges, especially in the oil sector, and stressed the need for realistic targets. He added that initiatives such as translating budget documents into local languages, simplifying technical content, and empowering communities to hold government accountable were essential steps.
On the fiscal implications of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), the Budget Office DG said improving revenue recognition in project financing and tax credit schemes would be critical. He also pointed out that debt servicing, which accounts for N14.3 trillion of the 2025 budget, must remain a top priority.
Yakubu assured that the government is committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and broad stakeholder involvement in implementing the budget.