Foundation calls on Tinubu to sign audit bill without further delay
The AdvoKC Foundation has urged Bola Tinubu to promptly sign the Federal Audit Service Bill, which has remained unsigned for over seven months after being passed by the National Assembly. The group argues that the bill would strengthen Nigeria’s audit system and improve public finance accountability. Habib Sheidu, the foundation’s Project Director, emphasized that the bill would give the Auditor-General greater enforcement powers. The call for action comes amid concerns that the delay signals a lack of commitment to governance reforms.
What we know
- The AdvoKC Foundation says the Federal Audit Service Bill has been unsigned for more than seven months after passage by both chambers of the National Assembly.
- Habib Sheidu stated that the bill would repeal the colonial-era Audit Ordinance of 1956 and establish an autonomous Federal Audit Service and Board.
- The group referenced the International Monetary Fund’s 2026 Article IV Consultation report, which highlighted issues with Nigeria’s budget process and called for reforms.
- The bill was first introduced during the 6th National Assembly between 2007 and 2011, with several failed attempts in subsequent assemblies.
- Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar gave Bola Tinubu a seven-day ultimatum to either sign the bill or provide reasons for withholding assent, warning that continued inaction undermines accountability.
