The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) is under increased scrutiny over its management of public funds, foreign investments, and flagship development projects following a Freedom of Information (FOI) lawsuit seeking extensive disclosures from the agency.
Details of the Lawsuit
The suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, demands details of billions of naira in statutory allocations, foreign investment arrangements, development financing agreements, and the implementation status of major projects undertaken by the agency between 2023 and 2026. The case is marked FHC/ABJ/CS/957/2026, with Aigbokhan President as the applicant and Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu and two others as defendants.
Alleged FOI Violation
The suit follows the agency's alleged failure to respond within the statutory period to an FOI request addressed to NASENI's Executive Vice Chairman, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu. The applicant seeks a declaration that NASENI's refusal to provide information on rural electrification projects, irrigation infrastructure, technology deployment initiatives, and other public programs violates the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.
Information Sought
At the center of the dispute are demands for a comprehensive account of the administration of the NASENI Statutory Fund, including revenues from the agency's statutory 0.25% levy on profits of companies operating in Nigeria, federal government appropriations, foreign investments, and development financing arrangements. The request also seeks records on prominent investment announcements, such as the reported $2 billion Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Development Programme (AMEDP), partnerships with foreign institutions, and programs for local manufacturing and technology transfer.
Further disclosures are sought on agreements with international partners, including arrangements with the China Development Bank and Chinese technical partners for solar cell manufacturing projects. The applicant also demands information on the reported $425 million solar production expansion program, including financing structures, private-sector co-investors, local content commitments, project milestones, and implementation outcomes.
Importance of the Case
According to the applicant, the information is necessary to assess whether public resources allocated to strategic industrial and technological development initiatives have been effectively deployed. Aigbokhan President stated, "This case signals a growing insistence on measurable accountability in public spending. NASENI occupies a strategic position in the management of public resources earmarked for industrial development, renewable energy, local manufacturing, and technological advancement. Consequently, the agency's records are germane to the industrial revolution of the country."
Court Proceedings
Court records indicate that on June 3, 2026, the Federal High Court granted leave for judicial review and adjourned the matter until September 22, 2026, for further proceedings. The case is expected to test the extent of transparency obligations imposed on public agencies administering substantial public funds and international investment portfolios.
