The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and 34 states received 438 billion naira in July from the federal government, according to Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Falana, in a recent video posted by Channels TV. Programs meant to lower poverty in these areas were to be funded by this considerable sum.... CLICK TO READ THE FULL NEWS HERE▶▶
Falana raised concerns about the visibility and effectiveness of these poverty reduction programs, noting that it is challenging to identify any tangible initiatives in the states that received the funds. This lack of observable impact calls into question how effectively the money is being used.
He disclosed that Anambra and Kaduna States did not receive any portion of the 438 billion naira allocation. According to Falana, the agency responsible for distributing the funds withheld these states’ shares because they were still waiting for reports on how previous disbursements had been utilized.
Falana emphasized the importance of accountability in the use of public funds, suggesting that the delay in reporting from Anambra and Kaduna States exemplifies a broader issue of transparency and effectiveness in government spending. Without clear and verifiable reports on how the funds are being used, it is difficult to ensure that they are achieving their intended purpose.
He said: “I must say this time around that Anambra State and Kaduna State did not partake of the 438 billion naira because the agency in charge of disbursing the money said they were still expecting the report from the states on previous disbursement. So 34 states and the FCT received 438 billion naira to fight poverty”.
