CSOs Launch New Committee to Strengthen Budget Monitoring and Ensure Transparency …As Leaders Emphasize Commitment to Tackling Corruption and Enhancing Governance
In a significant move to promote transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s public finance sector, leaders of various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) on Thursday inaugurated the executive members of a newly established committee—the CSOs Budget Implementation, Assessment, Monitoring, and Evaluation Committee (CBIAMEC).
The initiative, launched amidst growing concerns over corruption and public sector mismanagement, is aimed at fostering efficient budget execution, improving oversight mechanisms, and closing existing gaps in government financial operations.
Comr. Splendour Agbonkpolor, the newly appointed chairman of CBIAMEC, outlined the committee’s broad mandate while addressing newsmen.
“Our role is to monitor budget implementation, assess its impact, identify any gaps, and advocate for necessary reforms. We are committed to promoting transparency, producing evidence-based reports, and collaborating with relevant stakeholders to support capacity-building efforts.”
He further stressed the impartial nature of the committee’s work, stating that no organization would be shielded in the fight against corruption.
“We are working toward assisting the government in evaluating projects at the implementation level. We aim to set a new standard for leadership that will transcend the current state of governance,” Agbonkpolor added.
Comr. Okpanachi Jacob, Head of Planning, emphasized the committee’s mission to scrutinize government procurement processes:
“Our primary aim is to ensure that government projects are executed in a transparent and accountable manner. The endemic corruption we’ve witnessed in the past demands a strong check on the system, and we are committed to delivering on that promise.”
Adding to the conversation, Comr. Patrick Ogheneyero, Head of Operations, stressed the necessity for rigorous financial oversight:
“Billions of naira have been spent on budgeting, monitoring, and evaluation in this country. As civil society organizations, it is our duty to ensure that every kobo allocated to government projects is spent transparently and effectively.”
The newly inaugurated executive members took their oath of service and pledged to work in synergy with governmental institutions, international development partners, and other relevant stakeholders. Their unified goal: to strengthen Nigeria’s budgetary processes and push for meaningful reforms through transparency, accountability, and civil engagement.
