SERAP Reveals: Nigeria’s States Splurge N1.71 Trillion on Recurrent Expenditures in Jan-Sep 2023

InfoStride News has reported that the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) revealed Nigeria’s 36 states have spent N1.71 trillion on recurrent expenditures from January to September 2023. In a letter to World Bank President Ajay Banga, signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, SERAP urged the World Bank to suspend loans to the 36 state governments due to credible allegations of mismanagement of public funds by state governors.

According to SERAP, many state governors are spending public funds, including funds from the World Bank, on frivolous items that do not benefit their states’ residents. Despite Nigeria’s public debt reaching N46.25 trillion in the fourth quarter of 2022, some states still owe civil servants salaries and pensions, relying on borrowing to meet these obligations. This raises concerns about the allocation of public funds for human development and capital projects.

SERAP exposed that state governors are misusing public funds on unnecessary travel, bulletproof vehicles, and funding extravagant lifestyles. The organization’s letter detailed frivolous recurrent expenditures by various state governments from January to September 2023.

For instance, Abia State reportedly spent N397,520,734.84 on feeding and welfare, with an additional N223,389,889.84 spent on refreshments and meals. Lagos State allegedly allocated N440,750,000 for a new bullet-proof Lexus LX 600 for the Chief of Staff’s office pool, and N2 billion for rechargeable fans, lights, and fridges in the Deputy Governor’s office.

Akwa Ibom State purportedly spent N92.54 billion on allowances, social contributions, travel, transport, utilities, materials, supplies, maintenance, training, hosting/mobilization of political associations, and entertainment at meetings in the first two quarters.

Adamawa, Anambra, Bauchi, and Bayelsa states also faced accusations of spending exorbitant amounts on non-salary expenditures, including furniture allowance, travel, training, stationery, and frivolous items.

SERAP’s letter implicated Borno, Cross Rivers, Delta, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kwara, and Kogi states for allegedly spending vast sums on frivolous items and suggested potential mismanagement or diversion of public funds.

In conclusion, SERAP’s findings reveal a troubling trend of misallocation and mismanagement of public funds by state governments across Nigeria. The organization’s call for the World Bank to suspend loans emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure funds are utilized for genuine development and the well-being of citizens. InfoStride News will continue to monitor and report on developments related to this matter.