The Senate has commenced the process of amending the National Social Investment Programme Agency Act of 2023.

The Bill which was introduced by Senator OPEYEMI BAMIDELE representing Ekiti Central seeks to relocate the agency from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to the Presidency.

The Senate Leader explained that the plan to amend the Act is to ensure that the social investment programmes are standard, transparent, effective, and accountable.

Senator BAMIDELE noted that with this amendment a wide range of sustainable development goals including poverty reduction, education, health, social inclusion, and empowerment could be achieved through the Agency.

Also, at the plenary, the lawmaker representing Yobe North, AHMAD LAWAN, pointed out that the 9th senate passed the bill, though its implementation was flawed because those who should be given support are those in rural areas difficult to reach. 

While contributing to the debate, Senator SERIAKE DICKSON representing Bayelsa West, urged the lawmakers to use the opportunity to look at other issues raised during its implementation under the administration of former President MUHAMMADU BUHARI. 

Senator DICKSON explained that the amendment should include the mode of selecting the beneficiaries of the programme.