US Embassy Criticizes Nigerian Governors for Lavish Spending Amid Economic Hardship

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has called out several Nigerian state governors for engaging in lavish public spending, even as millions of citizens struggle with economic hardship.

                       

In a post shared Tuesday via its official X account (formerly Twitter), the embassy amplified concerns raised by accountability advocates, highlighting a disturbing pattern of excessive government expenditures on non-essential infrastructure.

“While Nigerians are tightening their belts, the same cannot be said of the ruling class,” the embassy wrote.

Citing a new report from civic groups, the embassy pointed to examples of excessive spending:

• Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde reportedly approved ₦63.4 billion for the renovation of the state’s Government House, describing the current facility as “embarrassing” and “unbefitting.”

• In Gombe State, one of Nigeria’s poorest regions, Governor Inuwa Yahaya is said to be building an ultra-modern residence for ₦14.9 billion, while also allocating ₦14.23 billion to a new House of Assembly complex.

These figures have drawn sharp criticism, especially as Nigerians continue to deal with inflation, high unemployment, and the removal of fuel subsidies, policies that President Bola Tinubu has asked citizens to endure for the sake of economic reform.

The US embassy noted that this alleged lack of fiscal discipline not only widens inequality but also undermines public trust in government.

“Such alleged lack of fiscal responsibility fuels inequality and erodes public trust,” the statement read.

The embassy also shared the report's link, encouraging broader awareness of the issue and urging the Nigerian public to demand accountability from their leaders.