The House of Representatives has decided to conduct an investigation into the privatization and concession of Federal Government silos nationwide.
The decision was made following the approval of a motion presented by Rep. Inuwa Garba (APC-Gombe) during the plenary session in Abuja.
In his motion, Garba highlighted that the Federal Government had entrusted 22 out of its 33 silo complexes nationwide to private sector entities through concession agreements.
He emphasized the necessity of examining the circumstances surrounding the privatization or concession of these grain storage silos across the country.
Garba stressed the importance of investigating the entire process, including the criteria utilized for selecting private entities, due to the critical role these silos play in ensuring food security and the availability of affordable grains nationwide.
Furthermore, he emphasized the significance of transparency in the bidding process to uphold accountability in public administration and maintain principles of fairness and equity.
In agreement with the motion, the House urged the Federal Government to prioritize subsidizing agriculture to stimulate economic growth and enhance food security in Nigeria.
The House delegated the responsibility to the Committee on Agricultural Production and Services, Privatization and Commercialization, Public Assets, to conduct an inquiry into the privatization and concession of 22 out of 33 government silos.
Additionally, the House resolved to investigate other essential national assets of the government that may have been negotiated without adhering to due process.
It urged the committee to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
Meanwhile, Garba, while explaining the motion at a news conference, said it was wrong for the government to have privatised or concessioned the silos.
“I feel it is very wrong to privatise the silos that are meant for the government to have food security by having food storage in order to support and alleviate the sufferings of Nigerians.”