The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has raised concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s proposal to increase Nigeria’s 2025 budget from ₦49.7 trillion to ₦54.2 trillion, describing the move as unprecedented and potentially unconstitutional.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), CISLAC questioned the legality of the budget adjustment, citing Section 81(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates the submission of a supplementary budget to the National Assembly if additional expenditure is required. The organization criticized the executive’s approach, stating that merely informing the National Assembly through a letter, rather than following due process with a supplementary appropriation bill, undermines the integrity of the budgetary process.

“The cited additional revenues were not sudden; failing to account for them in the initial budget highlights poor fiscal foresight,” CISLAC stated. The group also lamented the lack of prior consultation with the leadership of the National Assembly, arguing that such unilateral decision-making weakens the constitutional principle of checks and balances.

The statement further pointed to a pattern of executive actions that disregard due process, referencing delays in ministerial nominations that exceeded constitutional timelines. CISLAC warned that such practices erode democratic governance and hinder transparency in fiscal management.

CISLAC also expressed concern over the growing national debt, noting that ₦16.32 trillion was allocated for debt servicing in 2025—a sharp increase from ₦712 billion in 2014. It criticized the inefficiency of debt-financed projects, citing the incomplete Kaduna-Abuja Highway as an example of mismanaged public funds.

As an alternative, CISLAC urged the government to prioritize internally generated revenue for funding smaller, realistic projects, rather than relying on loans that strain the economy. It also called for a thorough review of budget allocations to prevent wasteful spending on defunct or non-existent government agencies.

“The National Assembly holds a constitutional mandate to oversee and approve federal expenditures. CISLAC urges lawmakers to exercise their authority rigorously in this matter,” the statement reads. The organization called on the executive to uphold transparency, respect constitutional provisions, and engage in meaningful consultations before making major fiscal decisions.

While acknowledging the need for national development and economic growth, CISLAC insisted that such efforts must align with constitutional legality, fiscal responsibility, and inclusive governance. It urged the executive to reconsider the budget adjustment and adhere strictly to established legal procedures.

CISLAC reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for transparent, accountable, and participatory governance in Nigeria.