AGF Ogunjimi Commits to Quick Passage of PFM Bill

By Oluwakemi Kindness

The Accountant General of the Federation, Shamseldeen Ogunijmi has expressed his readiness to ensure the successful passage of the Public Financial Management (PFM) Bill.

The PFM Bill initiated by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) seeks to give legal backing to the public finance management reform initiatives of the federal government and the operations of the treasury of the federation.

Ogunijmi spoke at a meeting with the Director General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Dr. Dasuki Arabi who led a team from the Agency on a courtesy visit to the Accountant General of the Federation.

According to a statement by the Director information OAGF, Bawa Mokwa, Ogunijmi hints that a stakeholders’ engagement is planned for the proposed Bill and solicited the involvement of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms in the engagement.

The AGF also points out that he will give priority to positive reforms that will reposition the treasury of the federation for more efficient performance.

Ogunijmi acknowledge the pivotal role that the BPSR plays in public service reforms and expressed the resolve of the OAGF to work closely with the Agency to drive treasury reforms and improve public financial management in Nigeria.

Speaking earlier, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Dr. Dasuki Arabi says the visit is to strengthen the bond between the BPSR and the OAGF and also explore opportunities for synergy to drive reforms and improve service delivery in the country’s public service.

He says the BPSR is to undertake a nationwide impact assessment of the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS), adding that the OAGF will be actively involved in the initiative.

He drew the attention of the AGF to the outstanding entitlements of government employees that were disengaged from service during the 2006 right-sizing exercise. He suggested that a committee be set up to verify the outstanding entitlements and other complaints so that these could be cleared.

Dr. Dasuki Arabi congratulated the AGF on his appointment and expressed optimism in his ability to lead the treasury.

Photo credit….X