This resolution came to fruition following the adoption of a motion put forth by Rep. Nyampa Zakari (APC-Adamawa) during the plenary session on Tuesday.
In his address, Zakari emphasized the global impact of the COVID-19 outbreak, which emerged as a significant pandemic in 2019, affecting families, businesses, and economies on a global scale.
Zakari further explained how the pandemic inflicted severe consequences, leading to the loss of lives, livelihoods, jobs, and economic opportunities for countless households worldwide, including those in Nigeria.
The lawmaker shed light on the extent of the pandemic's disruption on economic activities, which necessitated a series of worldwide measures like lockdowns, travel restrictions, business closures, and government shutdowns, all aimed at curbing the spread of the virus.
In response to these challenges, Zakari explained that various programs, policies, and interventions were introduced to stimulate economic recovery, particularly for families, small businesses, and public corporations.
He said, “Mindful of that the Federal Government of Nigeria initiated several measures including budgetary provisions as well as funding from international donor agencies to combat the COVID-19 pandemic on the citizens;
“Also aware that a sum of N83.9 nillion was appropriated for the COVID-19 response in the 2020 Appropriation Act as well as another sum of over N100 billion as intervention funds through supplementary budget and international donor agencies.
“The Auditor-General’s report and other sources reveal that significant funds for COVID-19 palliatives and international donations were diverted and unaccounted for by various agencies of government.
“Concerned that the lack of proper accountability of funds allocated for COVID-19 intervention by the Federal Government and global donor agencies could potentially lead to negative economic ratings and loss of opportunities for Nigeria,” he said.
