U.S. Embassy Criticizes Nigerian Governors Over Misuse of Public Funds
U.S. Embassy Criticizes Nigerian Governors Over Misuse of Public Funds
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has expressed strong concern over the financial conduct of some state governors, accusing them of lavish spending and poor management of public resources.
In a report released on Tuesday, the embassy pointed out that several governors are directing large amounts of money towards building and renovating government lodges, despite the widespread economic hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.
This criticism comes at a time when President Bola Tinubu has been urging citizens to endure the tough economic conditions brought on by recent government reforms. However, the embassy’s findings suggest that some state leaders are not sharing in the sacrifices expected during this period.
For instance, in Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde approved a staggering ₦63.4 billion for the renovation of the Government House.
According to the governor, the existing facility was embarrassing and unfit to serve as the official residence.
Similarly, in Gombe State, one of Nigeria’s poorest regions, Governor Inuwa Yahaya committed nearly ₦15 billion for the construction of a new, ultra-modern government residence. In addition, the state is spending over ₦14 billion on a new House of Assembly complex.
The US Embassy condemned these actions on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, emphasizing that such reckless spending undermines public trust and increases inequality across the country.
Transparency and accountability groups also echoed these concerns, warning that the misuse of public funds contributes to widening the gap between the ruling class and ordinary citizens.
“This level of fiscal recklessness deepens inequality and undermines public trust in government institutions,” the U.S. Embassy stated.
As Nigeria battles inflation, rising unemployment, and soaring living costs, critics have condemned the excessive spending on government residences by some state governors, calling it both wasteful and unjustifiable.
Many Nigerians believe that such resources would be better directed toward vital sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
The U.S. Embassy’s report has sparked renewed debate about accountability in governance and the urgent need for more responsible management of public funds to ensure equitable distribution of the nation’s wealth.
