NEC Secretariat Receives N7.9bn Amid Funding Complaints

The National Economic Council (NEC), chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, approved the disbursement of N7.895 billion for the NEC secretariat for the 2025 fiscal year. This decision comes despite widespread complaints from various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) regarding inadequate funding and low capital releases, which they argue are hindering the delivery of key government programs.

Documents reveal that the funds are drawn from the 0.5 percent stabilization fund account, with a closing balance of N54.27 billion as of December 2025. Concerns have been raised by the Federal Ministry of Health, which reported an extremely low capital release of N36 million against an approved N218 billion for the year, impacting healthcare infrastructure.

Similarly, the Federal Ministry of Transport highlighted a shortfall in funding for major rail and marine projects. The Federal Ministry of Interior reported zero capital releases for 2024 and 2025, raising alarms about infrastructure and security services.

Overall, the situation underscores a critical need for reform in the funding patterns affecting various sectors.