The Nigerian House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to direct the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, to unfreeze the accounts of the National Social Investment Agency (NSIA) within 72 hours. The directive was issued during a plenary session, following concerns about the disruption of critical social intervention programs due to the account freeze.
Impact on Social Programs
The NSIA oversees several key social investment initiatives, including cash transfers, school feeding programs, and youth empowerment schemes designed to alleviate poverty and promote social equity. Lawmakers expressed alarm that freezing the agency’s accounts could undermine these programs, leaving vulnerable Nigerians without vital support.
During the session, Hon. Sada Soli, who moved the motion, described the freeze as a significant obstacle to the agency’s operations, warning of its potential to exacerbate hardship for millions of Nigerians.
“The freezing of NSIA accounts has paralyzed essential social welfare programs that millions of Nigerians rely on. This is unacceptable, especially at a time when the cost of living is rising, and poverty is deepening,” Soli said.
House Resolution and Debate
The resolution was passed after a heated debate among lawmakers, many of whom criticized the lack of clarity surrounding the decision to freeze the accounts. They argued that the move contravenes the government’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s socioeconomic challenges.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, underscored the urgency of resolving the issue. “The NSIA plays a critical role in supporting the most vulnerable members of our society. Freezing its accounts not only disrupts these programs but sends the wrong message about our priorities as a government,” Abbas stated.
Lawmakers further demanded that the Ministry of Finance provide a detailed explanation of the rationale behind the account freeze and ensure that such actions do not recur without proper justification.
Wider Implications for Social Investment
The freezing of NSIA accounts has raised broader concerns about the continuity and effectiveness of Nigeria’s social investment framework. Critics argue that disruptions to the agency’s funding could jeopardize its ability to meet its objectives, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
The NSIA’s programs are widely regarded as a lifeline for many Nigerians. Initiatives such as the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) and the N-Power program have provided direct financial assistance and employment opportunities to millions, while the Home-Grown School Feeding Program (HGSFP) has improved child nutrition and school enrollment rates.
Civil society organizations have also weighed in, urging the government to prioritize the stability and efficiency of social welfare systems. “Freezing NSIA accounts at a time when millions of Nigerians are grappling with economic challenges is counterproductive,” said Grace Akintola, Executive Director of the Centre for Social Equity and Development.
Government’s Response Pending
As of now, the Federal Ministry of Finance has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the account freeze or the House’s directive. However, analysts suggest that the move may be linked to ongoing audits or concerns over the agency’s financial management.
Despite these speculations, lawmakers insist that the NSIA must be allowed to resume its operations unhindered. “Transparency and accountability are important, but they should not come at the expense of urgent social needs,” Hon. Soli emphasized.
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