Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has disclosed that the state government is paying N4.7 billion monthly from its federal allocation to offset the debt he inherited when he took office in May 2023. The financial burden has forced the governor to take drastic steps, including receiving only half of his salary and cutting costs across his administration.
During an interview in Kaduna, Governor Sani explained that since June 2023, the state has been facing financial challenges, primarily due to the debt inherited from the previous administration. He emphasized that the monthly deduction of N4.7 billion from the state’s federal allocation significantly reduces the funds available for running the state.
“In Kaduna, we are paying N4.7 billion in debt every month; go and check and see our allocation,” the governor said. “We should be receiving about N12 billion, but now we are getting around N8 billion. Other states in Northern Nigeria receive more.”
Governor Sani highlighted that, as part of his efforts to manage resources and reduce costs, he has taken several steps to cut down on governance expenses. “Since I became governor, we have not purchased a single vehicle for anyone, including myself, the Deputy Governor, or the commissioners. We have also reduced the performance bonuses and salaries of our commissioners and the Deputy Governor,” he stated.
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Additionally, Governor Sani shared that his own salary has been reduced by half as part of the state’s cost-saving measures. “Today, I am only receiving half of my salary because we have to make sacrifices, considering the challenges we face,” he said, stressing that the financial difficulties required everyone in his administration to share the burden.
Addressing concerns about the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), the governor explained that a significant portion of it is also used to settle debts. “People may ask about our IGR. Our IGR account is with Zenith Bank, and every month, Zenith Bank deducts about N800 million at source because I inherited that debt,” he revealed.
Despite the financial challenges, Governor Sani stressed his commitment to ensuring the continuity of governance and finding ways to navigate the tough financial situation. “I prefer not to complain about these issues, as I believe that governance is about continuity,” he said.
The governor’s statements reflect the difficulties Kaduna State faces in managing its resources, and his administration’s efforts to navigate the debt while keeping the state running efficiently.