Rep. Abubakar Kusada (APC-Katsina), Chairman of the House Committee on NG-CARES, announced the probe during a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday.
House of Representatives has initiated a thorough investigation into the N1.06 trillion Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, citing concerns over its lack of impact on vulnerable Nigerians.
Rep. Abubakar Kusada (APC-Katsina), Chairman of the House Committee on NG-CARES, announced the probe during a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday.
Kusada expressed alarm that despite the Federal Government releasing $696 million—equivalent to N1.06 trillion—for social intervention, safety nets, and palliatives across all 36 states and the FCT, the intended beneficiaries are not experiencing the benefits.
“The government has fulfilled its funding obligations and provided clear guidelines for implementation, yet the masses are still crying out about neglect amid economic hardships,” he stated.
Exercising its constitutional powers under Sections 88 and 89, the committee aims to uncover why the programme has failed to deliver.
“We are determined to investigate the disconnect between the huge sums disbursed and the lack of tangible results,” Kusada said, emphasizing the need to verify how funds were spent on social transfers, agricultural inputs, infrastructure, and support for micro and small enterprises (MSEs).
He noted that several states have claimed billions of naira for initiatives like social transfers, agricultural support, and market upgrades.
“We will verify these claims and assess their impact on food supply, prices, and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians,” Kusada asserted.
“If claims cannot be substantiated, we will name and shame the responsible states and demand accountability.”
Kusada also raised concerns about potential mismanagement, warning that states found to have diverted funds must restore and properly utilize them.
“If there has been gross mismanagement or abuse of the procurement process, the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and anti-graft agencies will take action,” he declared.
The investigation seeks to ensure transparency, hold states accountable, and ensure that Nigerians benefit from the social safety nets intended to alleviate economic challenges.
NAN
