Jul 21, 2026

I’ve Never Seen NASS Budget, Akpabio Admits

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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Abuja, Nigeria – July 21, 2026 – In a moment that has left many Nigerians stunned and angry, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has publicly admitted he has never seen the National Assembly’s budget — despite presiding over the body responsible for scrutinizing and passing the nation’s finances.

The startling disclosure, which quickly went viral, has ignited fresh debate about opacity, accountability, and the disconnect between Nigeria’s political elite and the citizens they serve.

Akpabio’s comment came during a public engagement and was captured on video, rapidly spreading across social media platforms.

For many observers, the revelation encapsulates deeper frustrations with governance in Nigeria.

The National Assembly — comprising the Senate and House of Representatives — plays a pivotal constitutional role in approving the federal budget, including its own allocations.

Yet the Senate President’s admission suggests a troubling lack of oversight even at the highest level.

Critics have been quick to point out the irony: lawmakers who demand transparency from the executive appear unaware of — or uninterested in — the details of their own institution’s financial dealings.

Public reaction has ranged from disbelief and outrage to dark humour, with many questioning how such a fundamental responsibility could be handled so casually.

The National Assembly’s budget has long been a subject of public scrutiny and controversy. Allocations for the legislature often run into tens of billions of naira annually, covering salaries, allowances, projects, and operational costs.

Critics frequently argue that these figures are disproportionately high compared to the visible impact on ordinary Nigerians, especially amid widespread poverty, insecurity, and declining public services.

This latest revelation adds to existing concerns about budgetary opacity across government arms. It comes at a time when citizens are grappling with economic hardships, including high inflation, fuel costs, and questions over the efficient use of public resources.

Social media users and commentators have not minced words. Many are demanding full disclosure of the National Assembly’s budget details, rigorous audits, and reforms to ensure greater transparency.

Some have called for the Senate President’s explanation on how the legislature approves funds without proper visibility.

Others see this as symptomatic of a broader governance challenge — where institutions meant to check power instead operate with minimal public accountability.

The timing is particularly sensitive, as debates over fiscal responsibility, constituency projects, and lawmakers’ emoluments continue to dominate public discourse.

In my decades covering Nigerian politics, I have rarely seen a statement from such a high office generate this level of instant public disillusionment.

Akpabio’s admission, whether intended as candour or oversight, underscores a painful truth: too often, the processes that govern public money remain shrouded in mystery even for those at the helm.

Nigerians deserve better. Transparency is not a favour — it is a fundamental democratic requirement. The National Assembly must lead by example, not lag behind in openness.

Full publication of detailed budgets, independent audits, and citizen engagement on legislative spending are long overdue.

This episode should serve as a wake-up call. If the Senate President has truly never seen the budget he helps oversee, then the system needs urgent fixing — not excuses.

The people are watching, and their patience is wearing thin.