“House of Reps Vows to Strengthen Citizen Engagement and Legislative Oversight”

The Spokesman for the House of Representatives, Akintunde Rotimi, has reaffirmed the House’s commitment to upholding transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance. This statement came during the launch of the 2023/2024 Tracka report on budget performance, which highlights the progress of various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in executing government projects.

Rotimi commended BudgIT and the Tracka team for their dedication to ensuring that government projects extend beyond mere budget figures to deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians. He emphasized the significance of the data-driven insights presented in the report, which tracked over 1,400 projects across 25 states with a total allocation of ₦282 billion. He highlighted that such efforts were key in enhancing government accountability and service delivery.

“The insights provided in this report are invaluable, offering a foundation for assessing the efficiency of service delivery and the impact of public projects,” Rotimi said. “Civic oversight plays a crucial role in promoting transparency, and platforms like Tracka are essential in bridging the gap between policy intent and real-life impact.”

Rotimi also noted that the 10th National Assembly is committed to fostering collaborative governance, where citizens, civil society organizations, and the private sector play active roles alongside legislative oversight. This aligns with the House’s Open Governance objectives, which prioritize transparency and inclusive governance.

However, Rotimi urged civil society organizations to adopt a collaborative approach in engaging with parliament, stressing that adversarial dynamics often hinder progress. “Constructive engagement that fosters mutual respect is key to driving national development,” he said.

The report’s theme, “Achieving National Development through Efficient Service Delivery,” closely aligns with the legislative priorities of the House. Rotimi assured that the House would continue to strengthen the budget process, ensure that funds are used as appropriated, and hold relevant agencies accountable. He encouraged Tracka and other civic tech organizations to continue their efforts, as their work is vital in fostering a more transparent and accountable Nigeria.

The House, Rotimi concluded, will remain receptive to evidence-based advocacy that supports good governance and strengthens the country’s institutions.