At least six northern Nigerian states have allocated over ₦35 billion on luxury vehicles and government lodges in 2025, a WikkiTimes review of state budget documents reveals.
According to the documents, Adamawa, Borno, Jigawa, Kebbi, Taraba, and Yobe had earmarked large sums to acquire SUVs, renovate guest houses, and build liaison offices both within and outside their states.
The expenditures are part of a pattern in which state governments across Nigeria waste billions of naira on frivolous projects amid rising poverty and insecurity in the region.
Adamawa State
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s administration budgeted ₦2.9 billion to purchase 42 SUVs. An additional ₦3.56 billion was set aside for renovating and furnishing the lodges of the governor, deputy governor, and Secretary to the State Government (SSG) in both Yola and Abuja.
Borno State
Under Governor Babagana Zulum, Borno allocated ₦6.92 billion for the purchase of official vehicles. This includes ₦5.4 billion assigned to the state Ministry of Finance for the procurement of 50 vehicles. Another ₦830.5 million was budgeted for constructing new lodges, maintaining existing ones, and acquiring guest houses and staff quarters.
Jigawa State
Jigawa earmarked ₦1.14 billion for official vehicles. It also planned ₦300 million for renovating guest houses, ₦100 million for the governor’s residence, and ₦355 million for upgrades to the deputy governor’s lodge and liaison lodges in Kano and Kaduna.
Kebbi State
Governor Nasir Idris’ administration allocated ₦2.36 billion for vehicles. It also committed ₦3.3 billion to upgrade and furnish liaison offices in Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna, and Sokoto.
Taraba State
Taraba earmarked ₦2.4 billion for renovating the Jalingo Government House and ₦1.17 billion for the deputy governor’s office and guest house. A further ₦3 billion is allocated to construct and upgrade lodges in Kakara, Wukari, Gembu, Serti, Takum, and Donga. Another ₦800 million will be spent on a lodge in Yola.
Yobe State
Yobe allocated ₦2.18 billion for the purchase of 30 Hilux pickups and two Toyota Camry sedans for judges and Khadis. The budget also included ₦500 million for the Emir’s lodge and ₦140 million for upgrading chalets at the State Hotel in Damaturu.
Public Concerns
These allocations have generated criticism from analysts and civic groups who argue that state governments are prioritizing luxury over the dire needs of citizens. Northern Nigeria continues to grapple with widespread poverty, out-of-school children, farmer-herder conflicts, and rising insecurity.
“This shows a serious misplacement of priorities. Instead of addressing healthcare, education, and youth employment, billions are going into luxury and comfort for the political elite,” said Comrade Musa Idris, a Kano-based development analyst.
Despite calls for more responsible governance, many state executives continue to justify these expenses as essential for “official performance and representation.”
As the economy bites harder and food insecurity worsens across northern Nigeria, these budgetary decisions may further fuel public distrust in government spending and deepen the development divide between the political class and ordinary citizens.
