The Nigerian House of Representatives has resolved to establish a Special Committee to conduct an immediate investigation into the utilization of take-off grants, bailout funds, and other financial interventions allocated to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), government-owned institutions, and government-owned enterprises (GOEs) from 2015 to the present.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance titled “Urgent Need to Investigate Utilization of Take-off Grants, Bailout Funds, and Interventions Allocated to Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), Institutions, and Government-Owned Enterprises (GOEs) from 2015 to Present.” The motion was sponsored by the Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda.
Leading the debate on the motion, Mr. Chinda noted that the provisions of Section 88(2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria empower the House to expose corruption, inefficiency or wastage in the management of public funds appropriated by the National Assembly.
The Minority Leader emphasised that the prudent use of public funds is crucial for ensuring accountability, transparency, and public trust in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as Government-Owned Enterprises (GOEs).
He acknowledged that over the years, the government has provided take-off grants and intervention funds to both new and existing agencies to support their operations, alongside bailout funds aimed at facilitating specific services and clearing outstanding liabilities.
However, he expressed concern over recurring allegations of fund diversion and mismanagement, warning that the failure to use these funds as intended undermines critical public services and projects.
He also noted that the financial losses resulting from such mismanagement pose a serious drain on public resources—funds that could otherwise be directed toward essential services and national development, in line with Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution.
“Also concerned that the misuse of take-off grants, bailout funds, and other interventions has severely compromised national development goals, hindering progress towards critical social and economic objectives.
“Aware that the misappropriation of these funds has led to a demonstrable deterioration in the quality of public service delivery and compromised the security of the nation, thereby undermining public trust in government effectiveness.
“Also, be aware that the lack of stringent oversight and monitoring mechanisms may contribute to the inefficiency in the deployment of these resources, resulting in wasted funds that could otherwise be utilized to improve the good intended government policies and as well protect the lives of citizens.” The motion said.
Mr. Chinda therefore said there was the need for a thorough investigation by the National Assembly, as required by Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), to examine the scope, usage, and accountability of these financial allocations.
He said that the investigation will ensure proper oversight, prevent misuse of public funds, and promote national development.
The special committee to be set up is expected to investigate compliance with existing regulations and guidelines regarding the management and reporting of the funds, including any instances of diversion or misappropriation.
In addition, the committee is to make recommendations for the enhancement of regulatory frameworks, sanctions, monitoring systems, and accountability measures to ensure the effective and intended use of public funds in all relevant sectors.
The House adopted the motion and resolved to set up a special committee to investigate the matter and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
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