In a startling revelation, it has come to light that no fewer than 30 state governments in Nigeria spent a staggering N986.64bn on recurrent expenditures within the first three months of 2024. These expenses, which include items such as refreshments, sitting allowances, travel, utilities, and more, have raised eyebrows amid the country’s worsening economic challenges.
According to budget implementation reports analyzed from Open Nigerian States, a website supported by BudgIT that serves as a repository for public budget data, these expenditures reflect the financial priorities of the state governments. The data for this analysis was available for thirty states, with Benue, Imo, Niger, Rivers, Sokoto, and Yobe States lacking Q1 2024 data.
Breakdown of Expenditures
- Total Refreshments: N5.1bn
- Sitting Allowances: N4.67bn
- Local and Foreign Travel Expenses: N34.63bn
- Utility Bills: N5.64bn
These figures represent just a portion of the overall recurrent spending, which also includes salaries, internet access fees, entertainment, foodstuff, honorariums, wardrobe allowances, telephone bills, electricity charges, stationery, anniversaries/special days, welfare, aircraft maintenance, and more.
For instance:
- Abia State spent N10.92bn on recurrent expenditures, including N165.38m on refreshments and feeding, and N214.57m on sitting allowances.
- Adamawa State expended N23.7bn, with N287.61m on refreshments and feeding.
- Akwa Ibom State incurred N46.85bn, including N4.46m on refreshments.
Economic Impact and Expert Opinions
The hefty spending on recurrent expenditures by state governments has come under increased scrutiny. Financial experts have voiced concerns about the sustainability of such spending patterns, especially given the country’s economic difficulties.
Development economist Aliyu Ilias emphasized the need for states to develop themselves to attract investors, suggesting that they should identify and leverage areas of strength, such as natural resources.
Prof. Akpan Ekpo, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Uyo, urged states to increase their revenue by improving service delivery.
Prof. Segun Ajibola of Babcock University highlighted the persistent problem of high governance expenses at the state level, pointing out the lack of adequate oversight and accountability. He lamented that state assemblies have abandoned their oversight duties, allowing governors to operate without transparency.
Conclusion
The revelation of such extravagant spending by state governments underscores the need for financial reforms and better governance practices. It raises critical questions about the allocation of resources and the priorities of the state governments in addressing the pressing needs of their citizens.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges, the call for accountability and prudent financial management becomes ever more urgent. The focus should shift towards sustainable development practices that can yield long-term benefits for the populace.
By Alaro of Nigeria
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