The United States Embassy in Nigeria has raised concerns over the lavish spending of state governors on government houses despite the current economic hardship faced by Nigerians.
In a post shared on its official handle on Tuesday, the embassy cited a publication by The Africa Report titled “Nigeria’s ruling class splashes billions on government houses.”
The report criticised the extravagant projects of some state governments, pointing out the stark contrast with President Bola Tinubu’s call for Nigerians to endure the impact of his administration’s economic policies.
“While Nigerians are tightening their belts, the same cannot be said of the ruling class,” the report stated.
It revealed that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration approved ₦63.4 billion for renovating the Government House, describing the facility as “an embarrassment and unbefitting.”
In Gombe State, one of Nigeria’s poorest states, Governor Inuwa Yahaya reportedly allocated ₦14.9 billion for a new ultra-modern residence, with another ₦14.23 billion earmarked for the construction of a House of Assembly complex.
Sharing the report, the US Embassy quoted transparency and accountability advocates who condemned the spending patterns of Nigerian political leaders.
“Such alleged lack of fiscal responsibility fuels inequality and erodes public trust,” the embassy wrote, amplifying concerns about governance and resource management in the country.
