KEY POINTS
- Renewable energy funds of more than $2 billion were summoned by Ministers of Agriculture, Science, and Budget.
- Nigerias power supply insufficient despite heavy investment, House Committee queries.
- Dissatisfied with walk in representatives, reps demand ministers appear in person.
The House of Representatives Committee has summoned key ministers over renewable energy funds to appear it on wednesday.
These ministers includes the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Uche Nnaji and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu. They are to appear before the committee on Wednesday.
The inquiry aims to examine $2 billion in investments and grants for renewable energy development that has been allocated in Nigeria since 2015.
Power woes: fund utilization probed by committee
Hon Afam Ogene, representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency, Anambra State, is probing the reasons behind Nigeria’s inadequate power supply, despite substantial investments aimed at resolving the power deficit.”
None of the invited ministers came in person to Tuesday’s hearing, sending representatives instead to the disappointment of the Committee. The Committee immediately dismissed these representatives, and seriously told the ministers to show up in person.
Hon. Ogene said the National Assembly is constitutionally empowered to investigate how public funds are being taken care of. He that stressed, “This is not witch-hunting anyone, but it is unacceptable that key officials leave their seat repeatedly.
Ministers to testify on renewable energy efforts
It will focus on the roles of different ministries and agencies in renewable energy procurement and grant management, and is due to resume on November 5 and 6.
According to Vanguard, the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo as well as representatives from the Office of the Accountant general of the Federation, Niger Delta Power Holding Company and Union Bank of Nigeria will also be in attendance.
The Committee is particularly keen to know how the $2 billion given to renewable energy investments and grants is being used in the face of the country’s ongoing power challenge.
