Despite a significant increase in revenue allocations to various levels of government after the removal of fuel subsidies, concerns have arisen about the lack of adequate measures by state governors to alleviate the suffering of citizens.
Nigerians are facing heightened economic challenges due to worsening inflation and the continuous devaluation of the Naira.
The removal of oil subsidies on May 29, 2023, worsened the nation’s economic situation, leading to protests in several states.
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, Northern traditional rulers, and the Nigerian Bar Association have all expressed concerns about the growing insecurity and economic hardship.
While the federal government has faced criticism, attention is turning towards state governors to understand their efforts in alleviating citizens’ suffering.
The federal government criticized PDP governors, challenging them to explain how increased allocations were utilized.
In response, the PDP governors called on the APC-led federal government to address the economic hardship. The Minister of Information & National Orientation countered, urging PDP governors to fulfill their obligations to workers and pensioners before criticizing the federal government.
Despite receiving substantial allocations, questions have been raised about the states’ handling of increased funds. The House of Representatives initiated an investigation into state governments’ utilization of funds from the Federal Account Allocation Committee.
The FAAC shared over N1.1 trillion in December, with significant amounts going to states and local government councils.
However, many state and local government workers are still grappling with the implementation of the N30,000 minimum wage. The Nigeria Labour Congress is compiling a list of states’ wage award implementation status.
Despite the increased revenue allocations, there is a call for state governments to shoulder more responsibilities and collaborate with other agencies to establish social security funds, ensuring citizens are supported during economic hardships. The focus is shifting towards state governors to take concrete actions to alleviate the economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
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