Economists Demand Accountability for Rising State Revenues

Muda Yusuf, the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, stated that the rising revenues accruing to Nigerian state governments must translate into improved living standards for citizens. He highlighted that the increased fiscal resources create a greater responsibility for governors to enhance public services and infrastructure.

Yusuf noted that citizens should expect measurable outcomes in areas such as roads, healthcare, public transportation, education, agricultural infrastructure, security, power, and enterprise support. Data indicated that 35 states, excluding Rivers State, received N4.54 trillion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee and generated N2.43 trillion in internally generated revenue from January to June 2026, totaling N6.97 trillion.

He warned that if increased revenues are absorbed by recurrent expenditure or ineffective projects, they will not benefit citizens. Babatunde Ajayi, an Abuja-based economist, criticized the lack of accountability at the grassroots level, stating that local governments poorly manage resources, which affects the quality of life for citizens.