Tinubu, Shettima Allocates N13.5 Billion for Official Residence Renovations Amidst Nigerian Economic Challenges

Tinubu and Shettima Allocate N13.5 Billion for Official Quarters Renovation Amidst Poverty Struggles in Nigeria

The Federal Government is planning an expenditure of approximately N13.5 billion for the renovation of President Bola Tinubu and Deputy Kashim Shettima’s official residences in Abuja and Lagos. This substantial allocation is part of a supplementary budget submitted by President Tinubu to the National Assembly for approval.

Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu, recently announced that the Federal Government intends to seek approval for a 2023 supplemental budget exceeding N2 trillion, representing a 9.16% increase from the N21.83 trillion 2023 Appropriations Bill signed into law earlier in the year by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

A breakdown of the supplemental budget reveals that President Tinubu has allocated over N4 billion for the renovation of his official residence in Abuja, with an additional N2.5 billion set aside for the Vice President’s official residence. Similarly, renovation plans for the Dodan Barracks, President Tinubu’s official residence in Lagos, require about N4 billion, while the Vice President’s Lagos residence renovation is expected to cost approximately N4 billion as well.

These allocations have sparked widespread discussions and reactions across Nigeria, especially in light of the recent removal of the petrol subsidy, which led to a significant increase in petrol prices, negatively impacting citizens. While some have praised the government for addressing subsidy removal promptly, others have criticized what they perceive as excessive government spending, calling for greater efforts to reduce the overall cost of governance.

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It is worth noting that the National Assembly also recently announced a budget of around N57.6 billion for official vehicles for its members, including senators and House of Representatives members. This development has further contributed to the ongoing conversations surrounding government spending in Nigeria.