SGF seeks transparency in constituency projects

The Acting Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Dr Habiba Muda Lawal has called for transparency and thoroughness in the execution of constituency projects nationwide.

She made the call yesterday in Abuja at the 3rd Stakeholders Forum on Implementation of Zonal Intervention and Constituency Projects, which was also attended by representatives from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Lawal represented by the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties Office in the Office the Government of the Federation (OSGF) Mr William Alo, said the forum was for stakeholders to brainstorm on mechanism that would fast track the implementation of constituency projects.

She said stakeholders would develop ideas on effective procedure for monitoring, evaluation and verification for payment purposes of the projects to forestall poor or non-implementation.

“Constituency projects conceived to assist members of the National Assembly as elected representatives of the people to facilitate development of their constituencies. Thus, if they are executed with all amount of sincerity by the stakeholders, they would impact positively on the lives of the citizenry. This task may not be easy but we shall not leave any stone unturned to ensure that this dream is realized,” she said.

She said while MDAs are responsible for the implementation of the projects, the OSGF monitors, evaluate, verify implementation and authorize payments at various stages of execution.

Lawal said the projects were previously not being properly monitored, adding that there will be a turnaround as these are tax payers’ money that must be accounted for.

Mr William Alo, said his office was currently charged to oversee the implementation of zonal/constituency projects.