Kaduna State Allocates N80.2bn for Debt Repayment in 2026 Budget

Kaduna State Commissioner for Planning and Budget, Mukhtar Ahmed Monrovia, has disclosed that the government has set aside N80.2 billion in the proposed 2026 budget strictly for the repayment of both foreign and local debts inherited from previous administrations.

He disclosed that the administration of Governor Uba Sani had not borrowed a kobo, rather, it had been prudent in resource mobilisations to meet its financial responsibility.

He made the revelation yesterday during a special town hall meeting for the public presentation of the 2026 proposed budget held in Kaduna.

Monrovia explained that debt burdens inherited from previous administrations had posed significant financial constraints, making it necessary for the government to prioritise repayment to avert severe penalties. To him, the state has already begun offsetting the liabilities, adding that the repayment schedule might stretch until 2062, especially for foreign components.

He stressed that despite the heavy debt burden, Governor Sani’s administration had demonstrated financial discipline, insisting that the government had not borrowed a single kobo in the two years since assuming office.

He highlighted on-going reforms in contract processing and public finance management, noting that the era when contractors depended on undue delays or political manoeuvring to receive payments was over.

The commissioner said the government’s approach reflected its resolve to strengthen fiscal responsibility, sustain transparency, and restore public trust in the state’s financial management system even while navigating long-term debt obligations.