Atiku Calls for Transparency on Proposed Vienna Bond

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for transparency from the Federal Government regarding a proposed bond arrangement to be issued by ESME Limited on the Vienna market. Atiku, through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, demanded a full account of government revenues and spending before any further borrowing.

He expressed concerns over the lack of public information on the bond's size, cost, tenure, currency, and repayment structure, as well as whether there would be any sovereign guarantees. Atiku pointed out that despite increased FAAC allocations and oil earnings above budget benchmarks, domestic borrowing rose to ₦24.7 trillion in the first eight months of 2026, up from ₦12.98 trillion in the same period of 2025.

He urged the government to publish a comprehensive report linking revenue inflows to expenditures and borrowing, stressing that transparency is essential for public trust. Atiku also highlighted the rising costs of diesel and energy-related expenses faced by manufacturers, which could lead to increased prices and job losses.