News in Brief:
– Nigeria’s House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the privatisation of government silos, citing concerns about transparency and potential impact on food security.
– The probe will examine the circumstances surrounding the privatisation, selection criteria, and adherence to due process.
The Nigerian House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into the privatisation and concession of 22 out of 33 federal government silos across the country.
During a recent plenary session in Abuja, Rep. Inuwa Garba (APC-Gombe) expressed concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding the privatisation process and highlighted its potential impact on national food security.
According to his statement, reported by the press, he said that it was very wrong to privatise the silos that are meant to ensure food security in the country by having food in store to support and alleviate sufferings. Garba went on to emphasise the crucial role these silos play in ensuring that food are affordable for Nigerians.
Investigative scope and call for action
Subsequently, the House resolution issued a mandate to the Committee on Agricultural Production and Services, Privatisation and Commercialisation, and Public Assets. The committee will be saddled with the responsibility of conducting comprehensive investigations on the matter. They will also look into the transparency and accountability involved in the bidding process.
Desired outcomes of the probe include examining the circumstances surrounding the privatisation/concession of the silos, and the criteria used for selecting private entities.
Ultimately, the resolution extends the investigation beyond silos to encompass other critical national assets potentially privatised without proper due process. The committee is expected to report its findings within four weeks to the House for further legislative action.
Garba’s sponsored bill comes a day after reports that the government is distributing 60,000 metric tons of grain to help alleviate Nigerian’s suffering amid serious economic woes.
