NEDC Board Member Urges Governors to Use ‘Tripled Allocations’ for State Development
Transparency Call as States Receive Unprecedented Federal Funds
In a striking revelation that has reignited debates about fiscal responsibility in Nigeria’s states, Sam Onuigbo, the South-East representative on the North East Development Commission (NEDC) Board, has called for greater transparency in how governors manage their ballooning federal allocations. The appeal comes amid reports that state revenues have surged dramatically following last year’s fuel subsidy removal.
Speaking at the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered) South-East Zonal Summit in Umuahia on Friday, Onuigbo—who received a distinguished service award during the event—dropped a bombshell comparison. “The governors are getting money, more than three times what they got when I was the Commissioner for Finance,” disclosed the former finance executive, whose insider perspective lends weight to his analysis.
The New Fiscal Reality for States
Onuigbo’s comments highlight a seismic shift in Nigeria’s fiscal landscape since President Bola Tinubu’s administration eliminated the costly fuel subsidy program. According to financial analysts, this policy change has effectively redirected billions of naira previously spent on subsidies into state coffers through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) disbursements.
“Local governments are also getting money after the removal of subsidy,” Onuigbo emphasized, painting a picture of widespread increased funding across all tiers of subnational government. This windfall presents both an unprecedented opportunity and a significant accountability challenge for Nigeria’s 36 states.
A Mandate for Accountable Leadership
The NEDC board member didn’t mince words about the expectations accompanying these enhanced resources. “They should be transparent and make sure that they support Mr. President in trying to move the economy in the direction that Mr. President is driving it,” he asserted, framing proper fund utilization as both a moral obligation and a necessary complement to federal economic reforms.
Onuigbo’s call to action comes against a backdrop of growing public frustration over perceived mismanagement of state resources. Many citizens question why improved federal allocations haven’t translated into better infrastructure, healthcare, or education services in their communities.
AI Threat and Professional Preparedness
The summit also addressed broader challenges facing Nigerian professionals. Onuigbo urged younger citizens to join professional bodies like NIM, warning that the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) demands enhanced skills and adaptability. His caution echoed earlier remarks by NIM National President Commodore Abimbola Ayuba (retd), who highlighted AI’s disruptive potential across global job markets.
“Many jobs in the United States and the United Kingdom are now performed by robots,” noted Ayuba, emphasizing the urgent need for Nigerian professionals to “retool themselves with updated management skills.” This dual focus on governmental accountability and professional development underscored the interconnected challenges facing Nigeria’s public and private sectors.
The Road Ahead for State Governance
As Nigeria navigates its post-subsidy economic reality, Onuigbo’s remarks spotlight critical questions about subnational governance. With states now commanding significantly greater resources, the coming months will test whether governors can translate increased allocations into tangible development—and whether citizens will hold them accountable if they fail.
The transparency challenge extends beyond state capitals to local government areas, which have historically struggled with financial mismanagement. Onuigbo’s inclusive message—addressing both governors and council chairmen—suggests comprehensive reform is needed at all levels of subnational administration.
For ordinary Nigerians awaiting the promised benefits of subsidy removal, the NEDC official’s words serve as both a reassurance that more funds are flowing to their states and a reminder to demand proper stewardship of these public resources.
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