Tinubu approved N3bn for national social register verification – Presidency
In light of the ongoing investigation into the alleged misappropriation of N585m by the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Dr Betta Edu, the Presidency on Monday called for restraint and patience from Nigerians, warning against a media trial.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, who said this while responding to fresh revelations on the matter, disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had approved the release of N3bn to verify the National Social Register under the former administration of Muhammadu Buhari.
The social register was created for cash transfers and other social investment programmes under Buhari.
A memo dated December 18, 2023, from the Office of Chief of the Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, titled ‘Conveyance of approval; Re: appeal to use N3,000,000,000.00 (three billion naira) from the Covid-19 palliative fund for verification of the national social register,’ read:
“The above subject refers. Please be informed that Mr President has approved the expenditure of N3,000,000,000.00 (three billion naira) only, from the Covid-19 Palliative Fund for verification of the National Social Register. Please accept the assurance of my highest regards.
But speaking to The Punch on Monday night, Onanuga said “The President has directed the EFCC to investigate the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and all these matters are under investigation already.
