House Suspends Concession Processes

The House of Representatives has asked all federal government agencies to suspend all concession processes until its ongoing investigation is concluded.

The Joint House Committee on Public Assets and Special Duties gave this directives during its inaugural investigative hearing at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.

This was as the agencies that appeared for the hearing including the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) and
Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) did not tender the full documents requested by the panel.

While declaring the investigative hearing open, Speaker Dr Abbas Tajuden said the exercise marked a crucial milestone in the House’s dedication to appraise the efficacy of Public Private Partnership (PPP) Programmes and Concession Agreements from 1999 till the present day.

Represented by his deputy, Benjamin Kalu, the speaker said the objective of the investigative hearing is explicit to dissect the triumphs, challenges, and overall impact of PPPs and Concession agreements on public infrastructure and services.

“While PPPs have indeed played a crucial role in propelling development, it is imperative that their effectiveness undergoes a comprehensive analysis. Therefore, this hearing presents a platform for transparent dialogue, insightful discussions and collective efforts to rectify any shortcomings and build upon successes”.

“As we set off on this journey of investigation and evaluation, we should remain mindful of the public interest we are duty-bound to serve. Your insights and expertise are vital in shaping recommendations that will steer the course of future policies and practices. Hence, I encourage active involvement, constructive discourse, and a mutual commitment to transparency and accountability”.

“Together, let us ensure that the outcomes of this hearing not only provide a comprehensive understanding of past performances but also lay a solid foundation for more effective and equitable Public Private Partnerships in the future,” he added.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji