By Gift Chapi Odekina, Abuja

ABUJA — The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has expressed optimism that the appointment of Taiwo Oyedele as Minister of State for Finance will help restore confidence between local contractors and the Federal Government.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday nominated Oyedele to replace Doris Uzoka-Anite as Minister of State for Finance. Uzoka-Anite has been redeployed to the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning as Minister of State, marking her third portfolio under the current administration.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, Agbese said the appointment comes at a critical time, amid growing concerns over non-payment of local contractors and the absence of capital releases to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). He described the development as a move that brings renewed hope to the Finance Ministry and the broader economy.

In recent months, contractors handling federal projects staged protests at the National Assembly and the Finance Ministry headquarters over delays in the settlement of verified certificates for completed jobs. The contractors said the backlog had placed many firms under financial strain, stalled projects and led to job losses.

Agbese stressed that rebuilding trust between contractors and government must be treated as a priority, noting that the Ministry of Finance plays a central role in addressing funding gaps and improving cash flow management.

“Oyedele is bringing into office a wealth of experience in public finance and reform implementation. His track record speaks to competence, innovation and accountability. We believe his appointment will inject fresh energy and direction into the Finance Ministry,” he said.

The lawmaker added that Oyedele’s background in fiscal reforms and revenue administration positions him to help streamline payment processes, enhance transparency and strengthen coordination between the Finance Ministry, the Budget Office and other relevant agencies.

According to Agbese, timely payment for executed projects is critical to sustaining confidence in public sector contracts. He expressed optimism that the new minister’s reform-oriented approach would improve fiscal discipline and responsiveness.

He further assured that the House of Representatives would continue to provide legislative support and oversight to promote transparency in public expenditure and ensure the timely release of funds for critical projects.

Agbese urged local contractors to remain constructive in their engagement with government, expressing confidence that the new leadership at the ministry would take steps to address outstanding issues and create a more predictable operating environment for businesses in the construction and infrastructure sectors.