The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the privatization and concession of Federal Government silos across the country.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion during plenary in Abuja by a member of the House of Representatives, Inuwa Garba (APC-Gombe), who is the Chairman of the House Committee on Science Engineering.
Inuwa Garba moved a motion to investigate the privatization and concession of federal government silos in Nigeria.
Emphasizing the need for the investigation, he urged the Federal Government to consider subsidizing agriculture as a matter of priority to revitalize the economy and improve food security in the country.
The lawmaker stressed that Nigeria, with its population size, needs to have silos in all states for food security.
He stated: “Note that in September 2017, the Federal Government commenced the process of concessioning 22 out of its 33 silo complexes across the country to the private sector to ensure the availability of affordable grains nationwide.
Recognizing the importance of scrutinizing the circumstances surrounding the privatization or concession of Government Silos for Grains Storage in the country, considering the vital role these silos play in ensuring food security nationwide.
Also acknowledging the need to investigate the entire process of privatization or concession, including the criteria used for the selection of private entities, transparency in the bidding process to ensure accountability in public administration, and upholding the principles of fairness and equity.
The House mandated the Committees on Agricultural Production and Services, Privatization and Commercialization, and Public Assets to investigate the privatization/concession of 22 out of 33 Government Silos for grain storage and other critical national assets in Nigeria and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.