In a move that sent shockwaves through the country, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has suspended all programs run by the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) for six weeks, citing “ongoing investigations of alleged malfeasance.” This explosive decision comes after concerns about operational issues and improper payments to beneficiaries surfaced.
What’s on Hold?
All four major NSIPA programs – N-Power, Conditional Cash Transfer, Government Enterprise and Empowerment, and Home Grown School Feeding – are temporarily halted. This means beneficiaries won’t receive payments, events are canceled, and registrations are put on ice.
Why the Pause?
President Tinubu raised serious concerns about “improprieties” in the agency and pledged a swift and unbiased investigation to ensure social programs benefit the most vulnerable Nigerians. He also appointed a ministerial panel to review NSIPA’s operations and recommend reforms.
NSIPA Boss Under Scrutiny
Adding to the drama, the agency’s Chief Executive Officer, Halima Shehu, was suspended earlier this month due to the same allegations. This move comes just three months after her confirmation by the Senate.
What’s Next?
While the investigation unfolds, the suspension leaves many beneficiaries in limbo. Whether it’s young people in N-Power or families relying on the Conditional Cash Transfer, the temporary halt raises questions about their immediate needs and the future of these crucial programs.
Expect More:
This is just the beginning of a potentially long and complex saga. Stay tuned for further developments as the investigation progresses and the fate of NSIPA and its programs hangs in the balance.
