Nigeria’s National Assembly is initiating fresh moves to reset the country’s economic direction, with plans underway for a high-level policy dialogue focused on reforming the nation’s planning and budgeting systems.
The forum, scheduled for mid-April in Abuja, is expected to bring together key actors across government, finance, and the private sector to address long-standing gaps between policy design and real-world implementation.
Chairman of the House Committee on National Planning and Economic Development, Gboyega Isiaka, says Nigeria cannot achieve transformative growth without aligning its plans with realistic budgeting and disciplined execution.
Lawmakers say despite several development strategies over the years, weak implementation and economic shocks have continued to limit outcomes.
The planned dialogue will focus on building a system that ensures policies are not only well-designed, but also effectively delivered.
Organisers say the engagement will be held in collaboration with key government institutions, including the finance and planning ministries, as well as the Budget Office.
They add that Nigeria’s current growth trajectory remains below what is required to meet its economic ambitions, especially in the face of a rapidly growing population.
Isiaka says the country must move away from a business-as-usual approach and adopt a more coordinated, results-driven model for national development.
Also speaking, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Budget and National Planning, Clement Jimbo, emphasised the importance of structured planning in driving economic success.
He noted that while different budgeting models exist, Nigeria must adopt reforms that reflect its unique realities, focusing on accountability, efficiency, and measurable outcomes.
The dialogue is expected to explore practical options, including performance-based budgeting, while creating a platform for ministries and agencies to share experiences and propose reforms.
Lawmakers say the outcome will be a more responsive and coordinated planning framework aimed at delivering tangible results for Nigerians.
