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Reps Probes Galaxy Backbone Over Alleged Financial Infractions
Reps Probes Galaxy Backbone Over Alleged Financial Infractions
Reps probes galaxy backbone over alleged financial infractions…Conflict resolution institute also indicted for unsubstantiated payments, dubious trainings
The House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to Galaxy Backbone, the federal government’s IT and shared service provider, to explain alleged financial and contractual irregularities amounting to billions of Naira.
The probe, led by PAC Chairman Hon. Bamidele Salam, stems from findings in the 2021 Auditor-General’s report, which raised concerns over multiple violations of financial and procurement regulations.
At the committee’s hearing on Wednesday, Galaxy Backbone’s Executive Director of Finance and Corporate Service, Mr. Sani Mohammed Ibrahim, alongside other key officials, was grilled over several infractions.
Major Financial and Contract Violations
One of the key concerns was the non-remittance of N329.8 million in taxes, which should have been settled within 21 days. The committee ruled that necessary sanctions should be applied.
Additionally, the committee flagged a N66.8 million payment for contractual obligations that lacked supporting documentation. Galaxy Backbone was given 72 hours to submit all transaction details.
Further scrutiny revealed payments to ST Engineering, a U.S.-based company, which reportedly listed the same street address in two different states raising questions about the legitimacy of the transaction.
PAC found no evidence of contract execution and has demanded all relevant documents, including those required by the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).
Moreover, the organization was unable to satisfactorily explain e-payment violations amounting to N12.6 million, along with dubious transactions worth N2.4 million and a procurement contract valued at $164,403.
As a result, Galaxy Backbone has been summoned for a follow-up hearing on February 27, 2025, at 1 PM to clarify these discrepancies.
Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) Also Under Fire
The PAC also turned its attention to the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) over questionable expenditures, including the disbursement of N25.8 million for project monitoring and evaluation (M&E) allowances.
IPCR’s Director General, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, attributed the irregularities to the actions of a previous administration, as his leadership only assumed office in 2024.
However, the committee rejected this defense, demanding precise details of the projects, transportation fare calculations, travel personnel lists, and receipts of all related expenditures.
Additionally, the committee flagged N21.4 million spent on “doubtful trainings”, prompting the formation of an ad hoc committee, chaired by Rep. Billy Osawaru (Edo State), to investigate further and report back within a week.
Reps
The PAC concluded that the IPCR was guilty of financial inefficiency and lack of economic prudence.
Accountability Measures Intensify
These investigations are part of a broader effort by the PAC to ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to financial regulations across government agencies.
With tighter scrutiny on public funds, agencies failing to provide satisfactory explanations could face further consequences.
Both Galaxy Backbone and IPCR remain under the PAC’s watch as the probe continues.
Gov. Muhammed Bago Reserves All LG Vice-Chairmanship Positions For Women In Niger
Gov. Muhammed Bago reserves all LG vice-chairmanship positions for women in Niger. Governor Muhammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has mandated that all vice-chairmanship positions in the state’s 25 local government areas be exclusively reserved for women in the upcoming local government elections.
A strong advocate for women’s inclusion in governance, Bago emphasized that women have long been marginalized despite their significant contributions to society. He stressed the importance of actively involving them in leadership roles to drive development.
Describing women as key drivers of national progress, the governor stated that their inclusion in governance is not just about fairness but a strategic move for sustainable development.
“This initiative goes beyond meeting quotas; it’s about recognizing the strength, resilience, and intelligence of our women.
Their participation in leadership brings balance, innovation, and a unique perspective crucial for development,” Bago said.
Mohammed Umaru-Bago
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to removing barriers for women and ensuring their rightful place in decision-making.
He also called on All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders in Niger State to support the initiative, underscoring the importance of inclusive governance.
This decision aligns with Bago’s broader vision to promote gender equity and enhance women’s participation in leadership across all levels of government.
Tinubu Welcomes Brazilian Delegation For Bilateral Talks
Tinubu welcomes Brazilian delegation for Bilateral talks. A Brazilian delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Mauro Viera visited Abuja to strengthen cooperation between Nigeria and Brazil.
The visit included delivering an official invitation from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for President Bola Tinubu to visit Brazil soon.
Discussions focused on trade, investment, and cultural collaboration, with both nations signing agreements to enhance bilateral relations.
Viera praised Tinubu’s participation in the G-20 summit in Brazil last November and emphasized the need for deeper ties in culture, economics, and education.
Tinubu
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Tuggar, highlighted Brazil’s historic support, recalling its participation in Nigeria’s independence celebrations, underscoring the long-standing relationship between both countries.
Gov. Fubara Calls For Lasting Peace In Rivers, Reaffirms Commitment to Education
Gov. Fubara calls for lasting peace in Rivers, reaffirms commitment to education. Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has emphasized the need for lasting peace in the state, urging members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to fully comply with the Supreme Court ruling in the interest of stability and development.
Speaking on Thursday during the inauguration of the renovated Okrika Grammar School in Okrika LGA, Fubara reiterated his commitment to peaceful governance, stating, “For me to govern effectively, there must be peace. The Supreme Court has ruled, and we must abide by it.”
He also highlighted the government’s intervention in revamping the school, following a request from the Diocese of Okrika Anglican Communion.
The renovation aligns with his administration’s focus on education, healthcare, and food security.
Rivers State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ovy Chukwuma, described the project as a testament to Fubara’s dedication to quality education.
The renovations included modern classrooms, hostels, an ICT library, laboratories, an administrative block, perimeter fencing, and improved sports facilities.
Governor Fubara
Fubara assured the Anglican Church that experts would assess erosion threats to the school’s land, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
The event saw praise from the Old Boys Association, community leaders, and religious figures, who commended the governor for restoring the institution’s legacy.
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