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The House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts has called on the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment to refund a significant sum of 75 billion naira designated for COVID-19 intervention. This decision transpired during an investigative hearing on COVID-19 funds held in Abuja. The committee’s resolution underscores its dedication to fiscal accountability and transparency.
Expressing its commitment to due process, the committee notes that it had extended three written invitations to the Ministry of Trade and Investment, urging their appearance to account for the allocated funds. Regrettably, the ministry has yet to respond or comply with these invitations, prompting the committee’s assertive stance.
Furthermore, the Public Accounts Committee directs attention to the Federal Ministry of Health, urging a refund of 10 billion naira earmarked for COVID-19 vaccine production. The committee highlights that the allocated funds remain untouched and unutilized by the Ministry of Health, emphasizing the need for accountability and proper utilization of public resources.
This development underscores the committee’s determination to ensure responsible financial management in the utilization of COVID-19 funds. The scrutiny and call for refunds aim to uphold transparency, effective resource utilization, and adherence to budgetary allocations during the ongoing pandemic challenges. As the House of Representatives remains vigilant, these actions signal a commitment to ensuring that allocated funds serve their intended purposes in the fight against the pandemic.
