The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has sensitised members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) on the roles expected of them in promoting fiscal responsibility in the country.

Mr Victor Muruako, FRC Chairman, while addressing corps members on Wednesday at the NYSC camp Kubwa, Abuja emphasised the need for them to familiarise themselves with the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007.

He said this would enable them know how public resources are being managed by government officials.

The FRC held the sensitisation programme at NYSC camps in Abuja, Niger, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kaduna and Benue, to mark the scheme’s 50th anniversary.

According to him, the sensitisation programme became necessary as about 85 per cent of corps members were not aware of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007.

Muruako, represented by FRC Protocol Head, Mr Chinemeriem Ugoh, said that there is a need to monitor the level of transparency and accountability of Nigeria’s leaders.

“Show interest in laws, policies and measures that relate to how public revenue is generated, spent, borrowed, saved or invested.

“You have grown into a member of the country’s elite and so you must maximise your position and prepare for future leadership,” he said.

The Chairman said combined effort was necessary to ensure that Federal Government’s machinery for effective management of the fiscal system, works for the country.

He appealed to the corps members to become ambassadors of fiscal responsibility, adding that they were in a position to strengthen the system.

“To start, you need to visit the commission’s website: www.frc.gov.ng but most importantly, take advantage of FRA Section 51.

“The section states that, a person shall have legal capacity to enforce the provision of this Act by obtaining prerogative orders or other remedies at the Federal High Court, without having to show any special or particular interest,” he added.

Muruako said that although Nigeria has been faced with insecurity and other socioeconomic issues, the Federal Government had developed various governance reforms to ensure accountability.

This, he said made it possible for Nigerians to ask questions and proffer solutions to move the country forward.

The FCT NYSC Coordinator, Alhaji Suleiman Abdul appreciated the commission for holding the sensitisation programme, saying it was timely and would go a long way in developing Nigeria.

Prince Orji, who spoke on behalf of other corp members, appreciated the FRC for the knowledge shared, especially the critical role they could play in strengthening fiscal discipline in the country.