Probe N26.9bn ‘missing’ from USPF, SERAP urges Tinubu

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) is once again sounding the alarm over alleged financial impropriety, this time focusing on the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF). In a strong call to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, SERAP demands an urgent investigation into the purported disappearance or diversion of ₦26.9 billion from the fund, which is crucial for extending telecommunications access to Nigeria's underserved and rural communities.

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account for and explain the whereabouts of the alleged missing or diverted ₦26.9 billion of public funds from USPF.

SERAP's letter, dated May 9, 2026, and referencing the Auditor-General’s report of September 9, 2025, targets key figures in the communications sector, including the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Secretary of the USPF, Yomi Arowosafe. The organization insists that these officials, along with the Attorney General of the Federation and anti-corruption agencies, must account for the missing funds and ensure prosecution for any individuals found responsible.

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anyone suspected to be responsible should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence.

The implications of such alleged diversion are dire for Nigeria's development goals. SERAP rightly points out that any mismanagement of the USPF directly undermines its mandate to bridge the digital divide, support infrastructure development, and promote inclusive connectivity. This is not merely about financial accountability; it's about ensuring that millions of Nigerians, particularly those in remote areas, are not further excluded from the essential services and opportunities that reliable internet access provides.

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The USPF is vital to expanding telecommunications access in underserved and rural communities.

From our perspective at The Punch, this call for accountability is vital. While the government has initiatives aimed at digital transformation, reports of missing funds raise serious governance concerns. SERAP's persistent advocacy serves as a critical check on public institutions, reminding them that public trust is paramount and that transparency in the management of funds meant for national development is non-negotiable. The fight against corruption must extend to all sectors, ensuring that resources intended to uplift the nation are used effectively and for their intended purpose.

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these allegations, which include unaccounted expenditures, failure to remit public funds, irregular contract awards, and payments for services not rendered, point to serious breaches of public trust.