LCCI applauds FG’s Decision to Implement Oronsaye Report

The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) commends the recent decision by the Presidential Committee to implement the report on the Rationalisation and Restructuring of Federal Government Parastatals, Commissions, and Agencies. This decision aligns with the growing calls from Nigerians for a reduction in the cost of governance, especially in light of the challenging economic conditions facing the country.

Mr. Stephen Oronsaye, the former Head of Service of the Federation and head of the committee, estimated that implementing the committee’s recommendations could save the government over N862 billion between 2012 and 2015.

While the announcement of this decision is met with enthusiasm, it is imperative to establish a clear action plan for implementation that avoids creating an over-bloated structure, which could exacerbate bureaucracy and reduce service efficiency due to loss of expertise. The successful execution of this transformative journey requires a deep commitment and strong will from the Federal Government.

To ensure the effective implementation of the report, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry presents the following recommendations:

1. Establishment of a Steering Committee: Form a steering committee comprising members of the Oronsaye’s committee, where feasible, to ensure continuity in the implementation process.
2. Robust Communication and Publicity: Foster robust communication and publicity throughout the implementation process to enhance transparency and accountability among stakeholders.
3. Clear Definitions of Functions: Develop clear definitions of functions, protocols, and reporting lines for the emerging new structure and composition, while promoting inter-agency and inter-ministerial engagement.
4. Role Definition for Ministries and Agencies: Clarify the roles of ministries and agencies, with ministries focusing on policy formulation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting, while agencies handle policy implementation.
5. Involvement of the National Assembly: Fully involve the National Assembly in the implementation process, including the review and repeal of laws establishing agencies, and the formulation and enactment of new legislation.
6. Periodic Reviews and Monitoring: Plan periodic reviews and establish monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to keep implementation on track, adjusting activities as needed based on changing economic conditions and emerging challenges.
7. State-Level Implementation: Encourage state governors and assemblies to implement similar programs to amplify the national impact of cost of governance reduction efforts.

Reducing the cost of governance is crucial for ensuring sustainability, especially during times when the government calls for sacrifices from citizens. The success of this effort hinges on the government’s determination to carry out the exercise as announced.