Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Monitoring and Evaluation of the Output of the Standing and Ad-hoc Committees, Hon. Obinna Aguocha, has assured Nigerians of the Committee’s resolve to establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework with a view to address any gaps or inefficiencies.
Aguocha, member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South of Abia State, gave the assurance in a statement issued in Abuja.
The lawmaker, who appreciated the Speaker, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, over his appointment as the pioneer Chairman of the Committee, pledged his resolve to contribute to the development and progress of Nigeria.
According to him, “The committee is a new establishment and development in the way that the House of Representatives shall carry on its core legislative, representation, and oversight functions. It is designed to change the way things are done around here.
“Our primary role is to assist the leadership of the House of Representatives in the continuous assessment of the performance output of all the House and Ad-hoc Committees, set against the backdrop of intended objectives and implementation timelines.
“Our role also includes working collaboratively with all the Committees to advance the effectiveness of their legislative outputs, ensuring that any hindrance to their efficient functioning are adequately addressed and removed. It is also designed to make sure that the Committees follow the Terms of Reference under which they were set up.
“My immediate priorities for the committee include: establishing a robust monitoring and evaluation framework. A template for conducting thorough assessments of key government initiatives ongoing with the House of Representatives and addressing any gaps or inefficiencies that may be identified.
“I plan to focus initially on sectors such as education, healthcare, banking regulations, solid minerals, appropriations, internal affairs and security, energy, poverty alleviation programmes, works, due process, and agriculture production, among others.”
In the bid to ensure transparency and accountability in the monitoring and evaluation processes within the House of Representatives, Hon. Aguocha unveiled plans to introduce measures such as quarterly reporting, public access to information, and the use of technology to ensure that all processes are transparent and accountable.
As part of measures aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of monitoring and evaluation practices in the Nigerian government, he explained that the Monitoring and Evaluation Committee would partner with key government functionaries, agencies, and civil society organisations.
“To enhance the effectiveness of monitoring and evaluation practices in the Nigerian government, we will forge alliances with relevant persons and institutions of government to introduce standardized policy and procedures, and where necessary, ensure codified evaluation methodologies, capacity-building programs for legislators and government officials, and the use of data-driven decision-making processes.
“Again, collaboration with other relevant committees and agencies is essential for a comprehensive approach to monitoring and evaluation. We plan to establish strong relationships and engage in regular communication with stakeholders to ensure coordination and information sharing. We shall also be mindful to guard against any behavioral issues which may arise in the function of any Standing and Ad-hoc Committees, respectively, especially where such issues are intended to potentially disrupt, and or, undermine public confidence in the 10th House of Representatives.”
In the bid to achieve the feat, Aguocha pledged to bring a diverse range of skills and experiences to bear, especially in the areas of “public and community administration and my previous work both here in Nigeria and in the United States have equipped me with the necessary knowledge and expertise to effectively carry out my duties.
“This experience has eminently positioned me to efficiently discharge my duties and justify the confidence reposed in me by Mr. Speaker.
“Additionally, the other members of the Committee are also persons of diverse skills and backgrounds all highly suited to achieve the goals of the Committee as envisioned by Mr. Speaker and the leadership of the 10th House of Representatives.”
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