The House of Representatives has announced a comprehensive investigation into allegations of financial mismanagement and operational irregularities across Nigeria’s foreign missions. The decision follows mounting concerns over reports of corruption, poor accountability, and misuse of public funds in embassies and consulates around the world.
The House Committee on Foreign Affairs, which is spearheading the inquiry, said the probe aims to uncover the extent of financial impropriety and ensure that funds allocated for diplomatic operations are used transparently. Lawmakers expressed deep concern that Nigeria’s image abroad has been tainted by persistent reports of unremitted revenues, inflated expenditures, and lack of adherence to financial regulations in the missions.
During a plenary session, members of the House noted that despite significant annual budgetary allocations to foreign missions, many of them are struggling with unpaid rents, salary arrears, and decaying infrastructure. They lamented that such conditions undermine Nigeria’s diplomatic effectiveness and global reputation, calling for urgent reforms to restore accountability and efficiency.
The committee vowed to summon officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, and heads of affected missions to provide explanations and submit relevant financial records. Lawmakers also emphasized that the investigation will cover a review of internal control systems, procurement processes, and the management of consular revenues.
According to sources within the National Assembly, the probe was triggered by a series of audit reports indicating widespread mismanagement in the handling of funds meant for the upkeep of embassies and consulates. Some missions were allegedly found to have diverted government funds or failed to remit service charges collected from Nigerians abroad.
The House further warned that any official found culpable will face sanctions, including possible prosecution. It stressed that the exercise is not a witch-hunt but part of a broader effort to strengthen oversight and promote good governance in Nigeria’s diplomatic service.
As the probe begins, Nigerians at home and abroad are watching closely, hoping the outcome will mark a turning point in the administration of foreign missions and bring greater accountability to the nation’s international engagements.
