The Federal Government has called on the newly reconstituted NEITI Board to enhance the agency’s commitment to domestic resource mobilization for Nigeria.
Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chair of the NEITI Board, issued this directive during the opening session of the NEITI Board retreat in Lagos.
He urged the Board to address the risks and gaps in energy transition by leveraging information and data.
Represented by Ambassador Mathew Adoli, Nigeria’s immediate past Ambassador to Togo and a member of the NEITI Board, the SGF highlighted the federal government’s interest in the extractive sector, focusing on reforms driven by transparency, beneficial ownership disclosures, contract transparency, revenue generation, tackling oil theft, and addressing other process lapses in the industry.
The SGF praised NEITI’s collaborative work with other agencies and encouraged the new Board members to view their appointments as opportunities to contribute to Nigeria’s progress and the development of its extractive sector.
NEITI Executive Secretary Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji emphasized that the retreat provides a platform for the new Board to reflect on NEITI’s role in guiding the extractive industry’s future.
Dr. Orji urged Board members to propose their best ideas and innovative solutions, acknowledging the significant challenges facing Nigeria, which can be addressed through collective determination and creativity.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Energy Commissioner Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, declared the retreat open and called on the NEITI Board to focus more on subnational engagements with state and local governments, where host communities bear the brunt of extractive activities.
He stressed the importance of involving states, local governments, and the private sector in extractive industry governance to attract investments and diversify Nigeria’s economy through solid minerals development, host community programs, environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, domestic resource mobilization, and poverty reduction initiatives.
Gilbert Makore, Regional Director of Anglophone Africa for the global EITI, highlighted Nigeria’s significance in the global EITI community, which includes 57 implementing countries.
Mr. Makore urged NEITI and the NSWG to ensure that EITI disclosures lead to meaningful reforms, inform government policy and practice, and contribute to the national agenda on anti-corruption and domestic revenue mobilization.
DNews Info is a trusted source for breaking news, insightful commentary, and in-depth coverage of events across Nigeria and beyond. With a commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and engaging stories, we aim to keep our readers informed and empowered. Stay connected for the latest updates in politics, business, entertainment, and more.
Discover more from DnewsInfo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
