By Uzair Adam
A review of Niger State’s budget performance report has revealed that the state government allocated N1.2 billion to celebrations and special occasions in the first nine months of 2024.
This expenditure represents about 4% of the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR), which totalled N29.2 billion from January to September.
The spending has raised concerns, particularly as the state grapples with severe developmental and security issues.
Recently, Niger State has faced violent attacks by bandits, resulting in the deaths of ten residents and the destruction of homes.
Additionally, widespread flooding has devastated over 300 communities, with reports indicating eleven lives lost and 245 schools damaged.
Despite these challenges, the budget shows zero allocation for capital expenditures within the Ministry of Rural Development and the Rural Water and Sanitation Agency.
This lack of investment comes at a time when a cholera outbreak has claimed sixteen lives and left 165 others infected.
Due to the absence of potable water, many residents have resorted to using stagnant water sources shared with livestock.
In contrast, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education received only N196 million in capital funds, while the state’s basic healthcare sector saw no allocation for critical infrastructure improvements.
Reports indicate that 71% of households in Niger lack adequate sanitary facilities, and half the population lacks access to clean drinking water, underscoring the pressing need for investment in essential services.
Amid claims of limited resources, Niger State’s spending priorities have sparked concern.
The state currently has 1.6 million people living in poverty and an unemployment rate of 38.8%.