The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has requested the Nigerian Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, to provide detailed information regarding the procurement process for the N24.2 billion internet facility project.

In March 2023, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the sum of N24.20 billion for the provision of broadband infrastructure in airports, higher institutions, and markets across Nigeria.

In a statement on Sunday, the chairman of HEDA, Olanrewaju Suraju, requested clarification from the minister on the procurement process that led to the allocation of N24.2 billion.

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The organisation cited sections 2, 3, and 4 of the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act of 2011 and requested detailed information on how the project would be implemented and the contractors involved.

It also sought information on whether the project was covered in the approved 2023 budget, the specific budget line it falls under, the approved contractors responsible for implementing the contracts, and the terms of the contract.

HEDA has given a seven-day deadline for the response to its request, and expressed its willingness to provide further clarification if necessary.

The civil society organisation has consistently advocated for transparency, accountability, and good governance in public spending.

Its demand for an explanation on the procurement process of the N24.2 billion internet facility project highlights its commitment to ensuring that public funds are used judiciously and in accordance with due process.

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This request comes as many Nigerians express concerns over the alleged misappropriation of funds meant for public infrastructure development.

The Nigerian government has been repeatedly criticised for failing to provide adequate infrastructure across the country, and the lack of transparency in the allocation of funds has been a significant issue in the country’s fight against corruption.