The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) has clarified that bulk payments to individuals account for ministry projects is not permitted.
In a statement to clarifies its role in handling payments for projects and programmes implemented by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), it stated that it did not process payment request for N585m grants to vulnerable people by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
OAGF explained the request was not honoured because it did follow the established financial regulations.
The statement comes in response to recent media reports concerning a request from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation for payment of grants to vulnerable groups.
The Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Oluwatoyin Madein, emphasized that the OAGF does not directly make payments on behalf of MDAs.
She said that OAGF disburses budgeted funds to self-accounting MDAs, who hold the responsibility for implementing their projects and managing associated financial transactions.
Addressing the ministry’s request for grant payments, Madein explained that while the OAGF received the communication, it did not process the payment.
It said the ministry was advised on the proper procedures for disbursing such funds according to established financial regulations.
The AGF clarified that self-accounting MDAs, like the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, should handle such payments directly.
She: “Bulk payments to individual accounts, even designated as “Project Accountant,” are not permitted. Instead, verified individual bank accounts of programme beneficiaries must receive the allocated funds.
Madein reiterated her commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in the management of public finances.
She urged all MDAs to ensure strict adherence to established financial procedures and proper documentation for all transactions.
She noted: “On December 20, 2023, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, requested the OAGF to disburse a total of N585,189,500 for the “Renewed Hope Grant for Vulnerable Groups” in four states of Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Lagos and Ogun states.
“The request specified an individual bank account as the recipient, which prompted the OAGF’s response and emphasis on proper procedures.”
