**Budget Woes: Tinubu's Ministers in the Hot Seat as Reps Seek Answers** A heated session unfolded at the House of Representatives on Wednesday, February 25, as lawmakers grilled key members of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's economic team over the implementation of the 2025 budget. The session, convened by the House Committee on Appropriation, aimed to unravel the reasons behind the dismal performance of the budget and its implications for the proposed 2026 estimates. At the centre of the storm were Finance Minister Wale Edun, Budget Minister Atiku Bagudu, and Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) Chairman Zach Adedeji. The lawmakers, dissatisfied with the ministers' explanations, demanded accountability and adjourned the session amidst heated exchanges. **Revenue Growth, Zero Capital Releases: A Contradiction in Numbers** The lawmakers expressed concern over the zero releases for capital components of the 2025 budget, despite improved government revenues. Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, Abubakar Bichi, noted that government earnings in 2025 exceeded projections, but the capital projects remained stalled. "We have achieved about ₦28 trillion in revenue in 2025, from the target of ₦25 trillion. We need to have more information from you so that Nigerians who are watching will be informed," he said. **Tinubu's Ministers Defend Fiscal Decisions** Responding to the lawmakers' concerns, Finance Minister Edun attributed the situation to reforms aimed at ending unsustainable fiscal practices. He explained that adjustments to Nigeria's debt profile and exchange rate regime significantly affected fiscal operations, adding that some liabilities previously excluded were formally recognised. However, the lawmakers were not convinced, and the session ended with more questions than answers. **Implications for 2026 Estimates** The controversy surrounding the 2025 budget has serious implications for the proposed 2026 estimates. If the budget implementation fails to improve, it may hinder the government's ability to deliver on its promises to Nigerians. The lawmakers' demand for accountability and transparency is a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen whether the government will take concrete steps to address the budget woes. In conclusion, the session at the House of Representatives has highlighted the need for greater accountability and transparency in the implementation of the 2025 budget. The government must take concrete steps to address the budget woes and ensure that the proposed 2026 estimates are implemented effectively. Nigerians expect more from their