The Federal Government has launched a new phase of institutional reforms to make ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) more efficient, predictable and responsive to businesses and investors.
Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Taiwo Oyedele announced the plan on Thursday at a strategic engagement with heads of MDAs and senior officials at the Federal Ministry of Finance headquarters in Abuja.
Oyedele said the next stage of economic reform must go beyond macroeconomic stability to improve the daily experience of businesses that deal with government.
He said agencies must operate strictly within their statutory mandates and drop overlapping requirements, fees and processes.
Under the framework, MDAs must adopt a "One Government" approach, coordinating directly with one another instead of passing the burden to applicants. Where mandates overlap, the goal is "one lead agency, one process and one fee," and unnecessary regulatory requirements will be reviewed.
The minister also directed agencies to consult affected stakeholders, assess the economic cost of proposed measures, coordinate across government and give reasonable notice before major policy or regulatory changes.
On public finance, Oyedele said legally due revenues must be remitted fully and on time. Operating surpluses must go into the Consolidated Revenue Fund, and audited accounts must be submitted as required.
Agencies will now be assessed not only on revenue generated but also on speed of service delivery, compliance with published timelines and reductions in the cost of doing business.
The ministry will review submissions from participating agencies and give specific feedback within four to six weeks.
The draft framework will then be circulated for further consultation, and each agency will agree to measurable commitments that will be reviewed periodically.
Oyedele said the framework applies equally to the Finance Ministry, which must address bottlenecks such as slow approvals, delayed releases and outdated laws.
The engagement reflects the government's stated aim of building institutions that help businesses invest, expand and create jobs while strengthening public-sector accountability.
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