BY SAM OTUONYE

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, has spearheaded a high-level Fiscal Data Harmonisation Meeting (FDHM), marking a significant milestone in the country’s quest for economic stability and transparency.

The meeting which was held in his office in Abuja, on Monday brought together key stakeholders, including the Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite; the Accountant General of the Federation, Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi; and the Director General of the Budget Office, Mr Tanimu Yakubu.

The meeting, according to a press statement by Mohammed Manga, Director, Information and Public Relations, discussions focused on discrepancies in fiscal data across government institutions, which have affected Nigeria’s credit ratings and borrowing capacity.

The Minister emphasised the need for synergy between agencies such as the Budget Office, the Accountant General’s Office, and the Debt Management Office (DMO).

He stated: “Delivering accurate and comprehensive fiscal data is critical to economic stability and investor confidence.”

Attendees agreed on the establishment of a Fiscal Data Coordination Framework, which includes a main committee, a subcommittee, and technical teams dedicated to standardising fiscal reporting methodologies and economic assumptions

Edun reaffirmed that Nigeria must take ownership of its fiscal data credibility, reducing dependence on external institutions.

The meeting concluded with a firm commitment to implementing the framework, reinforcing transparency, strengthening investor confidence, and enhancing Nigeria’s economic outlook.

“As Nigeria embarks on this transformative journey, one thing is clear: accurate and reliable fiscal data will be the cornerstone of the country’s economic resurgence. With HM Edun’s leadership and the collective efforts of stakeholders, Nigeria is poised to regain its footing on the global economic stage,” the statement concluded.