The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has intensified its nationwide advocacy for prudent financial management by taking its fiscal responsibility sensitization campaign to National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camps across six states and the Federal Capital Territory, urging corps members to embrace transparency, accountability, and responsible resource management.
According to an official signed statement by Deputy Director, Strategic Communication Directorate, FRC, Bede Anyanwu, the sensitization programme was conducted at NYSC orientation camps in the FCT, Nasarawa, Niger, Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States, where thousands of corps members were engaged on the importance of fiscal discipline in nation-building.
The statement noted that designated FRC team leaders delivered keynote addresses on behalf of the Acting Chairman of the Commission, Barrister Charles Chukwuemeka Abana, under the theme, “Building a Stronger Nigeria Through Fiscal Responsibility.”
Speaking through his representatives, Barrister Abana commended the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, for granting the Commission access to the orientation camps despite the demanding schedule of activities.
The Commission emphasized that fiscal responsibility extends beyond government budgeting and public finance management, stressing that individuals also have a role to play through prudent management of personal and communal resources. Corps members were reminded that fiscal discipline is a critical national value capable of promoting sustainable development and economic stability.
The FRC further highlighted its statutory mandate under the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007, which empowers the Commission to promote transparency, accountability, and discipline in the management of public finances. It explained that its role includes ensuring value for public spending, safeguarding government resources, and promoting efficient utilization of national assets for the benefit of citizens.
Officials also outlined the Commission’s mission of promoting prudent resource management and its vision of fostering a nation where public funds are effectively deployed to drive sustainable growth and development. Participants were briefed on achievements recorded by the Commission, including enhanced monitoring of government revenues and expenditures, improved compliance by Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and increased public awareness of fiscal discipline.
While acknowledging the progress made, the Commission maintained that achieving full fiscal accountability requires collective commitment from citizens. Corps members were therefore encouraged to become advocates of fiscal responsibility within their communities, cultivate sound financial habits, and support transparency in both public and private institutions.
The sensitization also drew attention to Section 51 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which empowers citizens to seek legal enforcement of the Act’s provisions. The Commission described the provision as a critical tool for promoting accountability and strengthening good governance.
Corps members were further urged to uphold integrity, participate actively in community development initiatives, and contribute meaningfully to national development during and after their service year.
The engagement featured interactive sessions where participants sought clarification on fiscal responsibility and the Commission’s mandate. FRC officials provided detailed responses and practical insights into the principles of fiscal discipline and accountability.
To encourage participation, corps members who correctly answered questions based on the lecture received airtime rewards, creating an engaging learning environment.
The Commission concluded the campaign with a call on corps members to serve as ambassadors of fiscal responsibility and to contribute towards building a more transparent, accountable, and prosperous Nigeria.
