The Nigerian House of Representatives has summoned top government officials to account for the expenditure of funds allocated to agricultural programs between 2015 and 2025. The Ad hoc Committee investigating Agricultural Subsidies, Intervention Funds, Aids, and Grants Programmes issued the summons during a public hearing in Abuja. The Ministers of Finance, Agriculture and Food Security, and the Auditor-General of the Federation are expected to appear before the committee on February 3.
The lawmakers warned that failure to honor the invitation would result in legislative sanctions, as stipulated by the National Assembly’s powers. Committee Chairman Rep. Jamo Aminu explained that the hearing aims to scrutinize public spending in the agricultural sector, which has been designed to boost food production, support farmers, and strengthen national food security. The move comes amid concerns over food insecurity, rising food prices, and the effectiveness of past intervention programs.
The committee chairman expressed disappointment at the Auditor-General’s office for failing to provide audit reports on several agricultural subsidy and intervention programs within the review period. He emphasized the need for comprehensive audit documentation to track disbursements, utilization, and outcomes of the schemes. “We cannot effectively carry out this investigation without proper audit records. These funds span a decade and involve critical national programs. Transparency and accountability are non-negotiable,” Aminu said.
A Deputy Director from the Auditor-General’s office, Mr. Mohammed Adamu, attributed the delay in filing proper reports to the non-availability of key documents from the Ministry of Agriculture. He stated that the Auditor-General’s office had repeatedly requested relevant records but had not received the necessary cooperation. “The primary source of these documents is the Ministry of Agriculture. Without those records, concluding the audit process has been difficult,” Adamu explained.
The investigation highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the management of public funds allocated to the agricultural sector. The committee’s findings will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of past programs and informing future interventions to address food insecurity and promote national food security. The hearing is expected to shed light on the utilization of funds and identify areas for improvement in the agricultural sector.
