By Milcah Tanimu

A recently leaked memo from the Chief of Staff’s office has shed light on the controversy surrounding the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Betta Edu. The document exposes President Bola Tinubu’s approval of a N3 billion contract for the verification of the National Social Register, a program initiated during the previous administration of Muhammadu Buhari.

Dated September 18 and signed by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, the memo affirms President Tinubu’s endorsement of the N3 billion expenditure from the COVID-19 Palliative Fund.

“The above subject refers. Please be informed that Mr President has approved the expenditure of N3,000,000,000.00 (Three Billion Naira) only, from the Covid-19 Palliative Fund for verification of the National Social Register. Please accept the assurance of my highest regards. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President,” the memo stated.

This revelation follows the disclosure of numerous companies benefiting from the controversial contract, including Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo’s company, New Planet Project Limited, which received N438.1 million for consultancy services. Other beneficiaries include Fabunmi Olanipekun & Co. (N419.5 million), Vintsolve Global Consult (N558.8 million), Periscope Consulting, Blue Trend Enterprise, Laitop Dynamics Interlink Services, Memak Nigeria Limited, MC Van Management Consult Limited, and Danzinger Nigeria Limited.

Furthermore, allegations have surfaced that Edu authorized the transfer of N585 million from public funds into a private account belonging to a project manager in her ministry. Additionally, the minister reportedly approved flight tickets and airport taxis for her team traveling to Kogi State, despite the absence of an airport.