CSOs Urge FG for Targeted 2026 Budget for Poor

During a joint press conference in Abuja, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) called on the Nigerian federal government to ensure that the 2026 budget includes specific policies aimed at benefiting the poorest citizens. They emphasized the need for a targeted, data-driven social protection framework that links savings from subsidy removals to support vulnerable Nigerians, particularly in the transport, food security, and energy sectors.

Ez Onyekper, Director of Civil Social Justice (CSJ), urged the government to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in the mismanagement of refineries, highlighting a loss of $2.9 billion over the past four years. He criticized the potential sale or concession of refineries, warning that it could diminish Nigeria's value in the oil market.

Andrew Mamedu from ActionAid Nigeria stressed the importance of holding the federal electricity regulatory body accountable for reducing transmission losses and improving the electricity distribution sector. The call for improved public financial management practices was also emphasized.