From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged President Bola Tinubu to order a forensic investigation into how over N20 billion was expended in the Cement Technology Institute of Nigeria (CTIN) over the last 10 years.
The national students’ union, which made the demand in a statement, on Monday, noted that over N20 billion was contributed as levies on imported cement to CTIN for technical training purposes for over ten years when the country was still importing cement.
It recalled that CTIN was established in August 2011 by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, to support the domestic cement industry and its activities through the acquisition and development of appropriate technology, and to ensure the availability of affordable cement throughout the country.
The union also noted that the Institute was mandated to carry out research and development, promote the adoption of sustainable alternative technologies, and human capacity building in the cement sub-sector of the economy, but in June 2016, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) visited the Bank of Industry (BoI) in connection with the CTIN’s fund being managed by the bank.”
NANS Senate Leader, Babatunde Akinteye, however, challenged the EFCC or independent investigative panel from the presidency to probe the alleged misuse, diversion and misappropriation of the funds as implied by the EFCC.
He added that the situation of countless Nigerian youths who remain unemployed and lacking technical skills in a rapidly advancing global economy like Nigeria is a harsh testament to the repercussions of such mismanagement and embezzlement. “We demand answers, accountability, explanations and justice.
“In clear terms, we demand that the President direct the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, to make public its role so far, the status, management, and usage of the over 20 billion Naira (about $100 million) contributed as levies on imported cement to CTIN for technical training purposes for over 10 years ago when Nigeria was still importing cement.
“This is not a plea for answers but a demand for accountability, transparency, justice, and a rallying cry for all those who believe in Nigeria’s potential and the rights of its youths to education, opportunity, and a fair shot at success.
“We will not rest until every penny of the funds is accounted for, and until those responsible for this shameful betrayal of trust by hiding these funds and not using them for their right purpose, are held accountable publicly.”