The House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the alleged diversion and poor implementation of the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme.
Chairman of the House Committee on NG-CARES, Abubakar Kusada, told journalists on Wednesday in Abuja that the decision followed growing public dissatisfaction with the programme’s impact.
According to Kusada, the Federal Government disbursed $696 million (about ₦1.06 trillion) to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) through various delivery platforms.
He noted that the government met its funding commitments, issued operational guidelines, and established structures for implementation.
However, despite these measures, millions of Nigerians have yet to experience the relief promised under NG-CARES.
The programme was designed to provide palliatives and social safety nets to vulnerable citizens during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The House Committee on NG-CARES, in exercising its powers under Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution, has resolved to commence an immediate and full investigation into the programme,” Kusada said.
“We aim to unravel the disconnect and verify the propriety of the huge sums provided by the government for social welfare.”
He stressed that the probe would focus on transparency, accountability, and whether the funds delivered tangible benefits to those in need.
Kusada also raised concerns over claims from some states regarding expenditures on social transfers, agricultural inputs, labour-intensive agricultural projects, and market infrastructure.
Despite these reported investments, many communities say they have seen little or no assistance.
To improve efficiency, the lawmaker suggested nationwide training workshops for NG-CARES operatives, which could help ensure the programme meets its stated objectives.
Security and governance experts say the investigation reflects growing public frustration with government social intervention projects that fail to meet expectations despite massive budgets.
They warn that without strict monitoring, such programmes risk becoming channels for corruption.
The NG-CARES initiative, launched in 2021, was a World Bank-assisted programme aimed at mitigating the economic impact of COVID-19.
Its goals included supporting livelihoods, increasing food security, and improving access to basic services in communities affected by the pandemic.
As the probe unfolds, the House of Representatives says it will summon relevant stakeholders and demand detailed expenditure records from all implementing states.
Nigerians, Kusada assured, will be updated on the committee’s findings as it works to ensure accountability and restore public trust.
