The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has raised concerns about the perceived marginalisation of Nigeria’s Northern region in federal budget allocations and infrastructure development under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking at a citizen engagement forum organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Kaduna, ACF Board of Trustees Chairman Bashir M. Dalhatu claimed the North, which contributed over 64% of Tinubu’s 2023 election votes, has been excluded from key policy decisions.
Dalhatu presented data showing disproportionate allocation of infrastructure funds, citing a Federal Ministry of Works report indicating the South-West received N1.394 trillion for roads while the North-East got only N24 billion from a N1.013 trillion budget.
He highlighted the neglect of critical Northern projects like the Mambilla Hydroelectric Dam and Baro Inland Port, questioning the administration’s commitment to regional balance.
The ACF chairman also criticised the less than 5% budgetary allocation to agriculture despite the North’s pivotal role in national food production, calling for a state of emergency in the power sector to stimulate economic growth.
These concerns follow similar allegations by former presidential aspirant Rabiu Kwankwaso and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal.
While the presidency previously countered such claims by listing ongoing Northern projects, the debate continues as regional leaders demand equitable development.
Some Northern governors, including those of Kaduna and Gombe States, have defended the administration, asserting that campaign promises are being fulfilled. The controversy highlights growing tensions over resource allocation and regional development priorities in Nigeria’s federal system.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
