Despite criticisms surrounding the states' management of ecological funds, the government aims to provide financial assistance to help states address flooding and other environmental challenges.
Amidst concerns over transparency and accountability in the management of Ecological funds, the Federal Government has pledged N3 billion to support all states in mitigating the effects of the recent flood disaster.
Despite criticisms surrounding the states' management of ecological funds, the government aims to provide financial assistance to help states address flooding and other environmental challenges.
The funding is intended to support states in their efforts to combat ecological issues and alleviate the suffering of affected communities.
Nigeria experienced devastating floods in 2022, resulting in significant loss of life and property.
In response, former President Muhammadu Buhari criticized states for alleged corruption in managing ecological funds, urging them to account for their usage.
This concern was highlighted by a 2022 SaharaReporters’ report, which revealed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had accused then-Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu of misappropriating N2 billion meant for ecological projects to fund his political campaigns.
Despite receiving significant ecological funds, many states have failed to allocate resources towards erosion and flooding control, leading to continued loss of life and property.
Between 2021 and 2022, states received N64 billion in ecological funds, followed by an additional N34 billion between September 2023 and April 2024.
However, budget performance documents reveal that these funds have not been utilized effectively for their intended purpose.
In a recent development, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, announced an additional N3 billion in ecological funding while speaking to journalists in Kebbi state, highlighting the ongoing efforts to address these environmental challenges.
Edun stated, “I would like to announce that the National Economic Council has proactively decided to allocate N3 billion to support all states across the federation and the FCT in mitigating the effects of flooding this year.
“That will put many states like Kebbi in a good position to be able to prepare their farmers to the all-important dry season farming, which we anticipate will be successful, well planned and well implemented.”
He also stated that the government hoped that the initiative will lead to food availability at reasonably affordable prices, which would help lower inflation and further stabilize the economy.
He conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to supporting the state’s efforts to maintain security, enhance resilience, and boost productivity, ultimately solidifying its position as Nigeria’s food basket.
Also, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu, expressed concern that the flooding had affected many local governments more severely than he had observed during a recent visit.
SaharaReporters earlier reported that many states were failing to spend on erosion and flooding control despite the funds received.