The Budget Office of the Federation has clarified that the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Implementation Committee (PFIPC), recently scrutinized during a House of Representatives investigation, was actually initiated during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. This dispels claims suggesting it was established by the current government.
This clarification emerged during an investigative hearing by the House Committee examining the legal status, funding, and operations of various presidential committees and agencies.
Budget Office officials informed lawmakers that the PFIPC was originally set up under the Buhari administration to enhance fiscal policy coordination and implement economic reforms. The agency explained that the committee’s presence in successive government budget documents signifies the continuation of an existing initiative rather than the creation of a new or unauthorized entity.
In response to committee concerns about budgetary allocations for the PFIPC, the Budget Office stated that all funds were allocated in accordance with established budgetary procedures and received necessary approvals in line with the Appropriation Act and other financial regulations.
They emphasized that the Budget Office does not create government agencies; rather, it implements budgetary provisions as approved through official government channels. Their role is to process allocations within duly approved budgets.
Lawmakers sought clarification after allegations surfaced regarding the allocation of public funds to entities lacking clear statutory support. The committee is investigating whether all presidential committees and advisory bodies currently receiving government funds were lawfully established.
During the hearing, the Budget Office reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the prudent management of public resources, pledging full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
The committee announced that the investigation would continue, with additional government officials and agencies expected to testify about the establishment, legality, and funding of these committees.
As the hearing concluded, no final decision had been made by the House committee, and the investigation into PFIPC’s operations and funding—as well as those of related entities—remains ongoing.
