In response to the recent flood disaster, the Federal Government has allocated N3 billion to assist states in addressing the ecological damage, despite ongoing concerns about transparency in the use of ecological funds.
This decision comes amidst widespread criticism of how states manage these funds, particularly in light of their responsibility to address environmental challenges such as flooding. The new funding is intended to bolster the efforts of state governments in mitigating the impact of ecological disasters and to ease the suffering of affected communities.
Nigeria has faced severe flooding in recent years, with the 2022 floods being especially devastating, resulting in significant loss of life and property. Former President Muhammadu Buhari had previously condemned state governments for alleged corruption in the management of ecological funds, demanding that they account for their expenditures. A 2022 report by SaharaReporters revealed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had accused former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu of diverting N2 billion earmarked for ecological projects to finance his political campaigns.
Despite the significant funds allocated to them, many states have not effectively utilized their ecological budgets to address erosion and flooding, leading to continued devastation. Between 2021 and 2022, states received N64 billion in ecological funds, followed by an additional N34 billion between September 2023 and April 2024. However, budget performance reports indicate that these funds have not been adequately used for their intended purposes.
In a recent statement, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, announced the additional N3 billion allocation while addressing journalists in Kebbi state. He emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling environmental challenges, noting, “The National Economic Council has proactively decided to allocate N3 billion to support all states across the federation and the FCT in mitigating the effects of flooding this year.”
Edun further highlighted that this initiative aims to prepare states like Kebbi for the crucial dry season farming, with the hope that it will lead to increased food production at affordable prices, thereby helping to reduce inflation and stabilize the economy. He also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to supporting state efforts to maintain security, enhance resilience, and boost productivity, thereby solidifying Nigeria’s status as a leading agricultural nation.
In addition, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu, expressed concern over the severe impact of the flooding on many local governments, which he witnessed firsthand during a recent visit.
SaharaReporters previously reported that despite receiving funds, many states have failed to invest adequately in erosion and flooding control.
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