The Nigerian government has allocated a massive N13,805,814,220 in the 2024 fiscal year for the upkeep of former presidents, vice-presidents, heads of state, retired heads of service, and other dignitaries. This substantial budget includes provisions for a wide array of beneficiaries, including ex-Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari, former vice-presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, and Prof Yemi Osinbajo. Notably, ex-military Heads of State like General Yakubu Gowon, General Abdusalami Abubakar, General Ibrahim Babangida, and retired Chief of General Staff, Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (retd.), are also set to receive benefits.
A significant part of this allocation, N1 trillion, is earmarked for public service wage adjustments, covering arrears of promotions, salary increments, severance benefits, and minimum wage-related adjustments for various government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. Among the divisions of this substantial sum, N2.3 billion is directed towards the entitlements of former presidents/heads of states and vice-presidents/chief of general staff, while N10.5 billion is allocated as benefits for retired heads of service, permanent secretaries, and professors. Additionally, N1 billion is specifically designated for severance benefits to retired heads of government agencies and parastatals.
This financial plan extends beyond just these allocations, encompassing various other substantial financial commitments. These include N65 billion for the Presidential Amnesty Programme, N1 billion for the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Energy, and an extensive N108 billion for undisclosed special projects. Moreover, the budget outlines substantial funding for constituency projects, special projects, contingencies, aid and grants, and the National Social Investment Programme Agency.
Minister Mohammed Idris voiced optimism for the budget, viewing its passage as the herald of a transformative era for Nigerians. He emphasized President Tinubu’s dedication to inclusive policies and programs, particularly aiming at the empowerment of youths and women. The administration is committed to fostering an enabling environment for Nigerians across all segments of society through an array of policies, while also recognizing the potential for further progress in this endeavor.
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