Abuja, Nigeria
The House of Representatives Committee on Freedom of Information (FOI) has reminded ministries, departments and agencies, and corporate organisations of the implementation of the FOI Act 2011.
The committee said the legislation is crucial to advancing the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and good governance in the country.
NAN reports that this was in a statement signed on Thursday in Abuja by the clerk of the committee, Felicia Idowu.
She emphasised the importance of involving public institutions in fulfilling their responsibilities under the FOI Act.
According to her, the purpose of the law is to enhance the lives of Nigerians by promoting inclusivity, open governance, transparency, and accountability.
“It is on this note that the Committee on FOI plans to hold a National strategic stakeholders workshop on June 24 and June 25.
“It is targeted at Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of the Federal, State and Local Governments; other public institutions and corporations.
“It will attract authorities, whether executive, legislative or judicial agencies, ministries, and extra-ministerial departments of the government.
“It will also involve all corporations established by law and all companies in which the government has a controlling interest, and private companies utilising public funds, providing public services or performing public functions,” she said.
Idowu stated that the event would be organized by TIMDAVE Global Limited to support and strengthen the implementation of the FOI Act in Nigeria.
She added that the programme would also engage Civil Society Organisations and corporate bodies that utilise public resources, recognising them as custodians of information.
Although the FOI Act was signed into law by President Goodluck Jonathan on May 28, 2011, its implementation by government institutions and corporate organisations has remained weak, even 14 years later.
