A Chronicles Reporters’ analysis of Bauchi State’s budget performance document has revealed that the state government, led by Governor Bala Mohammed, spent a staggering N1.3 billion on honorarium and sitting allowances within just nine months.
Additionally, during the same period, the government allocated N1 billion for foodstuff and catering materials.
This spending spree comes despite widespread claims of financial challenges by many Nigerian states, particularly in the wake of current economic hardships. For instance, states in Northern Nigeria recently argued that they would struggle to meet their financial obligations if the Value Added Tax (VAT) sharing formula was revised. Similar concerns have also been echoed by states in Southern Nigeria.
Breaking down the expenditure, it was discovered that between January and September 2024, the Bauchi State government spent approximately N111 million monthly on foodstuff and catering supplies. Within the same timeframe, an additional N440.8 million went into refreshments and meals.
In contrast to these expenses, critical sectors in the state received relatively meager allocations. For example, the Ministry of Water Resources received N457 million for capital projects, while the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development managed to get only N52.3 million for capital expenditure. Similarly, the Ministry of Higher Education was allocated just N430 million, and the Specialist Hospital received a mere N147.6 million for its capital projects.
These figures have sparked concerns, particularly given the pressing developmental needs in Bauchi State. According to available statistics, at least 2.46 million residents in the state live in poverty. Furthermore, 54% of children are reportedly deprived of access to education, while 65% of households lack proper sanitary facilities. Alarmingly, 48% of residents still do not have access to clean drinking water.
The disparity between the government’s spending priorities and the state’s critical needs has drawn attention as residents grapple with economic challenges and limited access to essential services.
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