The House of Representatives has commenced an investigation into the implementation of the $696 million (N1.06 trillion) Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme.

Chairman of the House Committee on NG-CARES, Abubakar Kusada, while briefing journalists yesterday, said the decision to probe the programme stemmed from growing public discontent.

He noted that despite the government meeting its funding commitments, providing operational guidelines, and setting up structures for delivery, millions of Nigerians have yet to feel the intended relief from the palliatives and safety nets under NG-CARES.

Kusada said that the Federal Government had already released $696 million, an equivalent of N1.06 trillion, to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) through various delivery platforms.

He lamented that, yet, the reality on the ground shows little sign that these funds have brought meaningful assistance to the vulnerable groups they were meant to serve.

“The House Committee on NG-CARES, in exercising its powers under Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution, has resolved to commence immediate and full investigation of the NG-CARES programme to unravel the disconnect and ascertain the propriety of expenditure of the huge sums provided by government for the administration of social welfare,” he said.

The investigation, he explained, would dig into critical questions that touch on transparency, accountability, and the value delivered by the programme.

The lawmaker, who suggested that nationwide training workshops for NG-CARES operatives might be necessary to boost efficiency and ensure the programme meets its objectives, expressed concern over states’ claims of billions spent on social transfers, agricultural inputs, labour-intensive agricultural projects, and market infrastructure.