Abuja, Nigeria — The House of Representatives has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the ₦1.06 trillion Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, citing concerns over its effectiveness and transparency.
Chairman of the House Committee on NG-CARES, Rep. Abubakar Kusada (APC–Katsina), announced the probe during a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday. He expressed alarm that, despite substantial funding and operational support from the Federal Government, many Nigerians have yet to feel the impact of the programme’s social safety nets.
“A total of $696 million—equivalent to ₦1.06 trillion—has been disbursed across the 36 states and the FCT through various delivery platforms,” Kusada said. “Yet, the vulnerable groups this programme was designed to support continue to cry out over government neglect amid ongoing economic reforms.”
While the disconnect between resources allocated and tangible outcomes remains troubling, the lawmaker noted that the financial responsibility by the Federal Government had been fulfilled, having provided clear guidelines for implementation.
Invoking Sections 88 and 89 of the Nigerian Constitution, Kusada said the committee would conduct a full-scale investigation to determine how the funds were spent and whether they achieved their intended objectives.
He revealed that several states had claimed billions of naira for initiatives, including social transfers, agricultural inputs, infrastructure development, and market upgrades. The committee will scrutinise the validity of these claims and the impact they will have on the food supply, pricing, and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
“If the claims are verified, we will report the outcomes transparently,” Kusada stated. “If not, we will name and shame the states involved and demand corrective action.”
