During a period of severe economic hardship in Nigeria, where many households struggle to afford basic meals daily, the Accountant General of the Federation, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Madein, organized a workshop in the United Kingdom for commissioners of finance from all states and other government officials. This decision has sparked criticism from various quarters, including civil society organizations.
Despite enduring significant economic challenges during Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, Nigerians had hoped for relief under the new administration led by Bola Tinubu since May 29, 2023. However, while citizens brace themselves for better economic prospects, government officials seem unaffected, living extravagantly while the populace suffers in poverty.
The decision to hold the workshop in the UK instead of Nigeria, where it could have been more cost-effective, has been met with widespread condemnation. The workshop focused on topics such as Public Financial Management and International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), addressing issues like accounting in hyperinflationary economies and budget implementation challenges in Nigeria.
Critics argue that given Nigeria’s ongoing foreign exchange crisis, exacerbated by recent policy decisions such as fuel subsidy removal and currency floatation, the decision to hold the workshop abroad was unjustified and a waste of resources. They contend that bringing facilitators to Nigeria or opting for virtual training would have been more prudent.
The justification provided by the Office of the AGF, citing the residency of facilitators in the UK and approval by the National Economic Council, has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that the costs incurred in sending over 40 participants to the UK far outweigh the expenses of bringing a few facilitators to Nigeria.
Economists and public commentators emphasize the need for responsible spending of scarce foreign exchange reserves, suggesting virtual training as a more cost-effective alternative. The perceived insensitivity of government officials to the economic struggles of ordinary Nigerians has fueled public outrage, with calls for accountability and a more prudent use of taxpayers’ money.
Critics assert that the decision to hold the workshop abroad reflects a disregard for the nation’s economic challenges and prioritizes personal gain over public interest. They argue that such actions undermine the collective well-being of Nigerians and demand accountability from public officials, including the possible dismissal of the Accountant General of the Federation.