The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has summoned the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Dingyadi, to address concerns over the delayed inauguration of the Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) board.
This decision follows a petition submitted by the Obasi-Pherson Help Foundation and the Advancement of Social Justice and Economic Development Initiative (ASJEDI) in Abuja on Tuesday.
Committee Chairman, Rep. Mike Etabo (APC-Cross River), emphasized that the minister must appear in person to provide explanations. Additionally, he instructed the Managing Director of NSITF, Faleye Mayomi, to respond to allegations of non-compliance with project clearance regulations.
The petitioners raised concerns that while President Bola Tinubu had appointed a managing director for the fund, the board remained unconstituted months later. They argued that the absence of a board had created opportunities for operational irregularities within the agency.
“Our duty is to ensure governance processes are properly followed. The CEO’s appearance is necessary to shed light on these concerns,” Etabo stated.
He further noted that since the issue casts doubts on government actions, the minister’s response is essential to provide necessary clarifications.