The Federal Government has appointed select Treasury Officers from across Nigeria to oversee and safeguard the financial integrity of more than 40 donor-funded projects, urging them to uphold strict financial discipline and embrace innovative management strategies.
This directive was issued during a retreat organised by the Federal Projects Financial Management Department (FPFMD) in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, Acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGoF), Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, charged the officers with the vital responsibility of protecting both public and borrowed funds entrusted to their care.
Represented by Mr. Akuagwu Raphael Chucks, Director of Finance and Administration in the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), Ogunjimi emphasized the long-term implications of mismanaging borrowed resources.
“You have been entrusted with not just public funds, but borrowed funds which must be repaid in time, either in ours or that of our children,” he said.
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He noted that the officers’ selection from among their peers nationwide was a mark of trust and a call to serve as first-level gatekeepers in managing critical donor resources that are central to Nigeria’s development efforts.
“It is a privilege that you have been chosen among the many Treasury Officers in the country to safeguard the future of this great nation as the first gatekeepers of critical public funds as represented by the over 40 donor-funded projects,” he added.
Ogunjimi urged the officers to treat the retreat as an opportunity for deep reflection, exchange of ideas, and strategic alignment toward improved financial oversight of federally managed projects.
He called for the adoption of global best practices and innovative financial solutions to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the use of both donor and public funds.
“Explore innovative solutions and share best practices aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability and efficiency in the financial management of Federal Projects,” he said.
He also stressed the need for a shared vision and a heightened sense of responsibility among public finance managers, especially in an era of increasing scrutiny and complex financial demands.
“We have the responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity as we manage public funds and to ensure that our projects deliver value to the citizens we serve,” he said.
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Ogunjimi encouraged the officers to actively engage in the retreat, foster collaboration, and build professional relationships that support the successful delivery of their respective Project Development Objectives (PDOs).
“As you navigate the challenges and opportunities in our various projects, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence, knowing the OAGF is solidly behind you. Together we will pave the way for innovative financial management practices that will positively impact our nation’s development,” he stated.
