In an exclusive report, we learnt that Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, has made the decision to transfer the National Social Investment Programmes (NSIPs) from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to the Ministry of Finance and Coordinating Economy.
Additionally, a panel hastily assembled by the minister has recommended the resumption of these programmes to alleviate the plight of impoverished and vulnerable Nigerians.
However, the panel also suggests the establishment of a new board, under Edun’s leadership, to oversee the NSIPs, as per a top document obtained exclusively by SaharaReporters.
Titled “Interim Report Of The Special Presidential Panel On Social Investment Programmes,” the document advocates for the creation of a steering committee or board, chaired by the Honorable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, to coordinate the programmes.
Furthermore, the report proposes a thorough review and amendment of the NSIPA act to determine the future of the NSIPs.It remains unclear whether President Bola Tinubu is aware of Minister Edun’s actions.
This move by Edun has sparked controversy, particularly in light of President Tinubu’s previous directive that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation should oversee the NSIPs.
With the suspension of the previous overseer, Beta Edu, the decision to transfer the NSIPs to the Ministry of Finance and Coordinating Economy has raised eyebrows among critics.
Government officials fear that this decision may bring about significant changes within the programmes, potentially involving the dissolution of the current board, removal of state coordinators, and the appointment of new leaders.
One concerned official, speaking anonymously expressed disapproval of the move, citing legal discrepancies and potential violations of the laws governing the NSIPA.
SaharaReporters
