FG Moves to Hold MDAs to Performance Targets, End Overlapping Regulations
The Federal Government has announced plans to hold Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) accountable for measurable performance targets as part of efforts to reduce bureaucratic delays, eliminate overlapping regulations and improve the business environment.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, disclosed this on Thursday during a strategic meeting with heads of agencies and senior government officials at the Federal Ministry of Finance headquarters in Abuja.
Oyedele said Nigeria’s economic reforms must move beyond stabilising the economy to addressing the difficulties businesses face when dealing with government institutions.
He urged government agencies to simplify their operations, remain within their statutory responsibilities and eliminate duplicate requirements, multiple fees and unnecessary procedures that increase the cost of doing business.
The minister proposed a “One Government” approach that would encourage MDAs to coordinate their activities and prevent businesses from facing conflicting demands from different institutions.
Under the proposed arrangement, areas of overlapping responsibilities would be addressed through a system of one lead agency, one process and one fee.
Oyedele also called on agencies to consult relevant stakeholders before introducing new regulations, assess the economic impact of proposed policies and provide reasonable notice before implementing major regulatory changes.
On public finance management, he directed agencies to remit government revenues promptly and in full, transfer operating surpluses to the Consolidated Revenue Fund and submit their audited accounts in accordance with the law.
He said agency performance would be assessed based on measurable results, including service delivery timelines, compliance with published deadlines and reductions in regulatory costs for businesses.
The minister acknowledged that the Ministry of Finance must also address internal challenges, including slow approvals, delayed fund releases and outdated regulations.
As part of the implementation process, the ministry will review submissions from participating agencies and provide specific feedback within four to six weeks.
The draft framework will subsequently be circulated for further consultation, with agencies expected to agree to measurable commitments that will be reviewed periodically.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening accountability in public institutions, improving service delivery and creating a business environment that encourages investment, expansion and job creation.
