FG Allocates N962.83bn for SUVs and Empowerment Projects

The Federal Government of Nigeria has earmarked N962.83 billion in the 2026 Appropriation Act for the procurement of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and various empowerment projects, despite concerns regarding the country's increasing debt profile. This allocation includes N15.13 billion for the purchase of 39 SUVs and N947.70 billion for 2,579 empowerment initiatives.

An analysis by civic technology organization Tracka revealed that this amount surpasses the combined N960.27 billion budgeted for seven key federal ministries. Tracka raised issues regarding transparency, noting that only 70 out of the 2,579 projects have clearly identified locations, complicating monitoring efforts.

The projects are distributed across 184 implementing agencies, including those without mandates for empowerment programs. Significant allocations include N89.09 billion for the Renewed Hope Fertiliser Support Programme and N14 billion each for youth empowerment initiatives.

Tracka cautioned that poorly designed programs may serve as political patronage rather than genuine development.