No Commercial Bank Accounts for MDAs: AGF Mandates FPO Oversight
By Patience Ikpeme
The Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Madein, has issued a directive to all Federal Pay Officers (FPOs) across Nigeria, mandating them to rigorously monitor Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) within their jurisdictions to ensure strict adherence to the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy.
She clarified that MDAs are strictly prohibited from operating accounts with commercial banks without express presidential approval, which must be formally communicated by the AGF and adhere to established rules and guidelines.
This directive shows the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to the TSA and its broader public financial management reform initiatives.
Dr. Madein, in a statement released by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) and signed by its Director of Press and Public Relations, Bawa Mokwa, emphasized the crucial role of FPOs in enforcing TSA compliance.
The AGF’s tour of Federal Pay Offices across the country, which included a recent visit to the Benin, Edo State office, is designed to directly assess the operational realities and challenges faced by FPOs.
During her visit, Dr. Madein stressed the importance of transparency, dedication, and professionalism in the conduct of official duties for all FPOs. She reiterated that as representatives of the OAGF, FPOs are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct and avoid any actions that could tarnish the reputation of the Federal Treasury.
A key aspect of the AGF’s message focused on the meticulous maintenance of accurate, presentable, and compliant financial records. “No matter how good you are, if your record doesn’t show this, it would be difficult to adjudge that you are efficient,” she advised the FPOs.
“Make sure that your records are correct at all times, that they are presentable and that they meet the required standard.” She also announced that regular record checks will be conducted by officials from the Treasury headquarters.
Dr. Madein underscored the necessity for FPOs to possess a thorough understanding of relevant rules and regulations, including those outlined in the Financial Regulations, the Constitution, the Public Procurement Act, and other policy documents related to public finance management. This knowledge, she emphasized, is crucial for the efficient and effective execution of their responsibilities.
Recognizing the challenges faced by FPOs, Dr. Madein announced that the Federal Government is actively pursuing the construction of new Federal Pay Offices in several states. This initiative aims to provide suitable and permanent accommodations, resolving the long-standing issues of inadequate facilities and other related difficulties. She also gave assurances that the OAGF will continue to prioritize the welfare and well-being of all staff members working in Federal Pay Offices.
This combination of stricter oversight, improved working conditions, and a focus on staff welfare highlights the government’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of FPOs to effectively implement public financial management reforms and ensure the integrity of the nation’s finances.
