FG Warns MDAs on Zonal Project Compliance Issues

The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a stern warning to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) regarding non-compliance with zonal project verification guidelines. Hon. Zephaniah Jisalo, the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, disclosed this during the presentation of the annual status report and the launch of a compendium document on project execution under President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.

The report aims to enhance transparency and accountability in government interventions, providing a detailed breakdown of the performance of ministries. Dr. Onwusoro Maduka Ihemelandu, the Permanent Secretary, reported a significant improvement in project verification from 28% to 88% in 2023-2024, attributed to reforms and the deployment of a digital tracking system.

However, the government expressed concern over persistent non-compliance by MDAs, particularly regarding mandatory project verification before payment. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation emphasized that failure to adhere to these directives could lead to administrative sanctions, including exclusion from future project implementations.