By Euginia Oguneme
The Anambra State Ministry of Housing has recorded a 93.03 per cent capital budget performance for 2025, as it successfully defended its financial records before the Public Accounts Committee of the Anambra State House of Assembly during the review of the state’s audited accounts.
The budget defence took place on July 30 at the House of Assembly Complex, Awka.
Speaking during the session, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Noble Igwe, commended the Ministry for its impressive budget implementation and prudent management of public funds.
He noted that the review exercise forms part of the assembly’s oversight responsibility to promote transparency, accountability and effective utilisation of government resources.
During the review, the deputy minority leader advised the ministry to ensure that contractors append their signatures to payment vouchers to strengthen identification, accountability and financial documentation.
He urged the ministry to ensure that project codes correspond with those contained in the auditor general’s report to facilitate effective monitoring and tracking of government projects.
Also contributing, the member representing Aguata I Constituency, Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke, called for strict compliance with relevant laws and procedures to prevent unnecessary delays in the execution of government projects.
He reiterated the importance of contractors signing payment vouchers, describing the practice as a vital accountability measure that enhances transparency in public procurement.
Responding, the Commissioner for Housing, Arc. Henry Arize, disclosed that the ministry’s 2025 capital budget was revised from ₦10.375 billion to ₦9.875 billion, out of which ₦9.186 billion was expended on capital projects across the state, representing a 93.03 per cent budget performance.
Arc. Arize appreciated the committee for its diligence and professionalism throughout the exercise, assuring members that all observations and recommendations would be carefully addressed.
He commended the cordial relationship between the executive and the Anambra State House of Assembly, describing the collaboration as essential for promoting good governance, accountability and sustainable development in the state.
Euginia Oguneme is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
