By Jonathan Lois and Mercy Jerry
The Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has inaugurated members of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), reminding them of its powers to probe any financial irregularities, regardless of where they occur in the government, Ministries, Departments, Agencies of government and parastatals.
He also mandated the PAC to examine the audited government accounts showing appropriation of the sums granted by the House to meet the public expenditure, and any report made by the Auditor-General of the Federation concerning such accounts as enshrined on Section 85 (5) of the 1999 Constitution as Amended.
Abbas who was represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, made this known in an address at the Unveiling and Leadership Training of
the members of the 10th Assembly Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the House of Representatives, Monday.
Abbas informed that the work of the PAC is complemented by the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation and hoped that the unveiling would retool PAC members to this call to
duty for the tax payer which they should not afford to fail.
He also expressed confident that PAC will be vital in helping the 10th Assembly achieve its goals of ensuring transparency, accountability, and good
governance in Nigeria.
“The PAC is one of the most important committees of
the House and is committed to deepening its engagement with the Executive Arm of Government to ensure that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government uphold the principles of accountability, transparency, and prudence in the management of public finance.
“The PAC is also committed to strengthening the office of the Auditor General of the Federation in line with best global practices. The recent passage of the Federal Audit Bill to repeal the 1956 Audit Ordinance is in line with this commitment. The PAC’s mandate is very broad and expansive.
“It covers all aspects of
government finance, including the collection, expenditure, and
accounting of public funds. It is my pleasure to unveil this program and wish you the best of luck,” Abbas stated.
In his welcome address, Amb. Victor Oluwafemi, CEO of Africa Development Study Center (ADSC) believed that with proper human capacity development, coaching, guidance, and resources, PAC will fulfil its crucial mandate in safeguarding public finances and ensuring the appropriate utilisation of public resources in line with national development and progress.
He also reiterate the pivotal role PAC members play in safeguarding the existential principles of fiscal responsibility and good governance for the common good of all.
Victor Oluwafemi maintained that the training engagement reflects the importance of PAC-affirmed commitment to help build a better Nigeria, as well as the national yearning to inspire thoughts and actions to redefine fiscal responsibility and oversight function which is a testament to their commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
“Today’s engagement is unique in many ways; it is an opportunity for us to come together and work towards a common goal – strengthening the oversight role of the Public Accounts Committee in the 10th House of Representatives through capacity development.
“In this one-day leadership capacity development, we will explore and cross-examine various aspects of strategic leadership, management of public finance and oversight responsibilities, strategic decision-making, and leadership in crisis management.
“Our goal is to equip members with the knowledge, skills, attributes and tools necessary to excel in their roles as PAC members and to be effective public stewards in managing public resources. Therefore, I encourage you to actively participate, engage with our experienced trainers and facilitators, and share your insights and experiences.
“The success of this program hinges on the collective efforts of all participants, and I do not doubt that together, we can achieve remarkable progress. Together, we can assist the Public Accounts Committee of the 10th House of Representatives to fulfill its crucial role in ensuring the fiscal well-being of our great nation, Nigeria” he added.
