By ADEOLA AKINBOBOLA

The Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), has cleared the air on media reports that the Federal Government issued a “six-months ultimatum” to the World Bank.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Bawa Mokwa on Saturday in Abuja.

He explained that the comments made by the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Dr Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, to the World Bank delegation were made in the context of encouraging timely consideration.

The AGF emphasised that the facilities being accessed by Nigeria were loans and not grants.

He said that the timely release of funds would ensure that projects tied to such facilities were implemented within planned timelines and fiscal cycles.

“At no point did the AGF issue a threat or ultimatum to the World Bank. Rather, he underscored the importance of stronger collaboration and favourable consideration in the processing.

“There was no objection requests by the OAGF to the World Bank when such requests for the deployment of Projects Accountants, and others that has a duration of more than six months before the project closure.

“The OAGF remains committed to maintaining a cordial and productive relationship with the World Bank and other development partners, and effective public financial management in Nigeria.

“The Office reiterates its commitment to ongoing reforms, including the digitalisation of financial management processes, in line with global best practices,” he said. (NAN, but headline rejigged)