A civil society group, Media Rights Agenda (MRA), has criticised the Federal Government over what it described as inadequate funding for the implementation of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act in the 2026 national budget.
In a statement issued in Lagos on Tuesday, MRA said its review of the budget showed that more than 99 percent of federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) did not allocate funds for FOI-related activities.
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The group noted that out of over 1,300 public institutions, only 13 made provisions for implementing the Act, representing less than one percent. It added that while the total 2026 budget stands at over ₦58.47 trillion, only about ₦191.1 million just 0.00033 percent was earmarked for FOI implementation.
MRA’s Deputy Executive Director, Ayode Longe, said the lack of funding continues to hinder compliance with the law, including record-keeping, staff training, and timely response to public information requests.
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He warned that the persistent failure to prioritise FOI funding reflects a lack of commitment to transparency and accountability, and could weaken citizens’ right to access public information.
“The organisation also faulted the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation for failing to make budgetary provisions for its oversight responsibilities under the Act, describing the situation as discouraging and capable of promoting non-compliance among government institutions”.
MRA called on the National Assembly to reject budgets of agencies that do not include FOI funding and urged the Attorney-General to direct all public institutions to make adequate provisions for FOI implementation.
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The group further recommended the creation of a dedicated FOI oversight fund within the Federal Ministry of Justice to strengthen monitoring and enforcement of the law.
MRA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in governance through effective implementation of the FOI Act.
