By Idris Ibrahim
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adiola, has stated that the National Assembly’s focus on passing key Tax Reform Bills temporarily diverted attention from maintaining the traditional January-to-December budget cycle.
However, he reassured Nigerians that the lawmakers are working diligently to meet the January 31, 2025, deadline for passing the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
In response to concerns about the disruption of the budget cycle, Senator Olamilekan clarified that the budget review schedule remains unchanged.
He stressed that efforts are being expedited to ensure the deadline is met.
Adeola acknowledged that legislative focus had shifted due to the extensive discussions and collaboration required for the Tax Reform bills.
Despite this distraction, he pointed out that lawmakers resumed work on January 6, 2025, with joint sessions of the Senate and House of Representatives planned to speed up the process.
While recognizing the challenges posed by the tight timeline, Adeola expressed confidence that the budget will be passed on time.
He urged stakeholders and the public to stay hopeful, highlighting that the process demonstrates the Senate’s commitment to promoting economic stability and sustainable growth.