Nigeria inaugurates implementation committee on FOI Act

Nigeria inaugurates implementation committee on FOI Act

The Nigerian Government has inaugurated an inter-ministerial committee on the implementation of the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act in order to allow the free flow and accessibility of information in the public service.

While inaugurating the committee on Thursday in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, the Head of Service of the Federation, Alhaji Isa Bello Sali, said all public institutions were obliged to ensure that they kept adequate records and information on all activities and businesses.

Effective implementation

Sali, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Establishment and Record in the office of the Head of Service, Mr Charles Bonats, said the setting up of the implementation committee would allay fears and speculations about the seriousness of the FOI Act.

He said: “Since the signing of the Act, there have been some speculations and fears expressed that the public service is yet to put in place structures that should aid effective implementation of the act.”

But reports have it that through the inauguration of the implementation committee; all public institutions are obliged to ensure that their records and information are kept on all activities, information and businesses.

Moreover, the offices of the Head of Service and the attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice have collaborated at length to fashion out operational guidelines for the implementation of the act in all the ministries.

Sali also explained that the inauguration was to demonstrate the determination of the Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan to restore effective and efficient service delivery in the public service.

Reactions

Also, the Minister of Information and Communication, Mr Labaran Maku, represented by Mr Charles Chikezie, said this was an evidence of sincerity on the part of government, which would not only enhance transparency but would also promote good governance.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Career Management office, Mrs Kehinde Ajoni, noted that the FOI Act would entrench good governance, accountability, and transparency in various ministries in the government.

Ajoni stressed that this was an oath made to the people by the government which must be fulfilled.

The Chairman of the inaugurated committee on FOI Act and Permanent Secretary Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Mrs Nkechi Ejele, promised that the committee would ensure speedy completion of their task.

NP/Adekusibe/Williams