The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Tajudeen Abbas, has assured that the House would ensure transparency, accountability, efficiency, and effective implementation of the Naira-for-Crude policy of the federal government.
Mr Abbas gave this assurance on Wednesday through the Deputy Minority Leader at the inauguration of the ad-hoc committee for the implementation and oversight of the policy.
The Naira-for-Crude initiative was introduced in 2023 to allow local oil companies to purchase crude oil using the local currency rather than the US Dollar, with a longer-term aim of reducing FX dependency and Naira depreciation while boosting local refining capacity. However, there have been issues of transparency in its implementation.
According to the Speaker, the exercise is imperative as it marks a critical step towards ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in one of the most critical policy initiatives in our energy sector.
Mr Abbas added that the committee is entrusted with overseeing the implementation, effectiveness, and inter-agency coordination of the Naira-for-Crude Oil Policy.
“Its work is vital to ensuring that the objectives of the policy are met and that any gaps in execution are identified and corrected.
“The House expects nothing less than a thorough, impartial, and well-documented process that will contribute to the overall stability of our economy.
“Such an assessment will provide the House with clearer guidance in exercising its legislative commitment, and we trust they will deliver results that meet the expectations of this chamber and the hopes of the people we serve.
“Our resolve is to ensure that the legislature serves as a true partner in progress by aligning its priorities with the aspirations of the people and the policy direction of the government.
“We are committed to working collaboratively across party lines and with all relevant stakeholders to strengthen laws and policies that promote sustainable growth, enhance the welfare of citizens, and safeguard the nation’s resources for present and future generations.
“Stakeholder engagement will be central to this assignment, as meaningful results cannot be achieved in isolation.
“The involvement of government agencies, industry operators, civil society, and other key actors will give the committee a broad and balanced perspective.
“Such collaboration will help shape recommendations that are realistic, sustainable, and aligned with the national interest, while also strengthening public confidence in the work of the House.
“The task before this ad-hoc committee requires diligence, courage, and a clear sense of purpose. I urge members of the committee to carry out their work with integrity, objectivity, and dedication, bearing in mind that their deliberations and recommendations will shape the course of this policy and influence the well-being of millions of Nigerians.
“In doing so, they will strengthen our legislative processes and contribute to the progress of the nation.
“The House has full confidence in their competence and in the success of this initiative. Your partnership is crucial in ensuring that the objectives of this exercise are fully realised,” he said.