Senator Adams Oshiomhole has criticised the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited over the presentation of its budget before the National Assembly, arguing that top executives should personally defend major financial proposals rather than assigning the responsibility to junior officials.
Speaking during a Senate committee session, Oshiomhole said institutions entrusted with managing significant public resources should demonstrate accountability by ensuring that their chief executives appear before lawmakers to explain budgetary provisions and respond to questions directly.
The former Edo State governor compared the situation to the Presidency, noting that President Bola Tinubu does not delegate the presentation of the national budget to finance officials but personally submits the appropriation bill before a joint session of the National Assembly. According to him, public institutions should adopt similar standards of responsibility and transparency.
Oshiomhole stressed that budget defence is an important constitutional process that enables lawmakers to scrutinise public expenditure and ensure accountability in the management of national resources. He maintained that senior officials of government agencies should be available to provide detailed explanations on financial proposals under their supervision.
The comments came during ongoing legislative oversight of public institutions as the National Assembly continues its review of budget estimates and expenditure plans for various government agencies.
Political analysts say Oshiomhole’s remarks reflect broader concerns about transparency, corporate governance, and accountability in public institutions. They noted that regular engagement between agency heads and lawmakers is essential for strengthening public confidence in government spending and oversight.
Meanwhile, NNPC Limited has repeatedly stated its commitment to operating in accordance with the Petroleum Industry Act and maintaining transparency in its operations. The company has also pledged continued cooperation with relevant oversight institutions in matters relating to financial accountability and corporate governance.
As budget deliberations continue, observers have called for stronger collaboration between the legislature and government agencies to ensure prudent management of public funds while promoting transparency, efficiency, and accountability in Nigeria’s public sector.
