FG orders MDAs to strictly follow MTEF for budget credibility

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The Federal Government has mandated all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to rigorously comply with the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) to boost the credibility, transparency and discipline of Nigeria’s national budget process.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, issued the directive during a courtesy visit by the management team of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) in Abuja. Led by its Executive Chairman, Victor Muruako, the team engaged Akume on strengthening fiscal governance.

Akume stressed that unwavering adherence to the MTEF is non-negotiable for aligning public spending with national goals and ensuring realistic revenue projections. “The Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) continues to serve as a critical instrument for aligning public expenditure with national development objectives. It ensures predictability, coherence and sustainability in budgeting,” he said. “I wish to reiterate that all Ministries, Departments and Agencies must strictly adhere to the provisions of the MTEF. Compliance enhances the credibility of our budget process and ensures that annual appropriations are anchored on realistic macroeconomic assumptions and revenue forecasts.”

The SGF praised the FRC’s oversight under the Fiscal Responsibility Act, urging enhanced monitoring and enforcement to curb waste and build investor confidence. He highlighted the need for timely audited financial statements and budget reports, noting, “Consistency and discipline in fiscal operations are essential to strengthening macroeconomic stability, reducing waste and leakages, and channelling scarce resources toward sectors that directly improve citizens’ welfare.”

In his remarks, Muruako commended President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for providing political support amid fiscal reforms. Reflecting on his five-year tenure, he said the FRC had bolstered regulatory oversight of government enterprises, reinforced compliance and maintained independence.

“We express profound gratitude to President Tinubu for his reform-driven leadership,” Muruako added, thanking the SGF’s office for its guidance.