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Nigeria's States Spend 1.71 Trillion Naira in 2023: Economic Crisis and Budgetary Concerns

Katsina City News
22 Nov, 2023
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In the first nine months of 2023, 36 states in Nigeria collectively expended 1.71 trillion naira, revealing a substantial outflow of funds amid the country's economic crisis. This information, sourced from the Open Nigerian States website, exposes the considerable allocation towards salary payments, inclusive of allowances, foreign travel, office supplies, and aircraft maintenance within state budgets.

A noteworthy portion, amounting to 802.43 billion Naira, was allocated to salaries, while the remaining 917.57 billion Naira indicates elevated expenditures on various non-salary items. This has sparked concerns regarding the efficacy and prioritization of state expenditures, particularly in the backdrop of an economic crisis.

The complexity of the situation is exacerbated by the fact that only 30 states have disclosed security votes, casting doubts on the transparency and reliability of these funds. Moreover, the escalating debt levels signify an increasing reliance on borrowed funds, posing potential long-term ramifications for the financial stability of the states.

Amid Nigeria's economic challenges, marked by surging prices and unemployment, the lavish spending by state governments prompts questions about the judicious allocation of natural resources. It is imperative for state officials to exercise prudence, directing resources towards essential activities that directly benefit their constituents.