Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has expressed deep concern over the staggering debt legacy left behind by his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai, as he grapples with a dire financial situation, unable to meet salary obligations.
As reported by The Punch, during a Town Hall Meeting at the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Hall in Kaduna, Governor Uba Sani disclosed that upon assuming office on May 29, 2023, his administration inherited a daunting debt burden of $587 million and N85 billion, coupled with 115 contractual liabilities from the previous regime.
Despite refraining from borrowing over the last nine months, Governor Sani lamented that the debt hangover severely strained the state’s finances, with a significant chunk of the Federal Allocation being diverted to debt servicing.
He revealed that in March alone, N7 billion out of the N10 billion Federal Allocation was utilized for debt repayment, leaving the state with a meager N3 billion, insufficient to cover the monthly wage bill of N5.2 billion.
He said, “Despite the huge debt burden of $587m, N85bn, and 115 Contractual Liabilities sadly inherited from the previous administration, we remain resolute in steering Kaduna State towards progress and sustainable development. We have conducted a thorough assessment of our situation and are sharpening our focus accordingly.
“It gladdened my heart to inform you that despite the huge inherited debt on the state to date, we have not borrowed a single kobo.
“The key priority areas of our government include safety and security, housing, education, healthcare, and support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). We are also prioritising inclusive development by investing in human capital, stimulating the economy, and providing affordable housing.”
Nonetheless, the governor assured Kaduna residents of his administration’s unwavering commitment to steering the state towards progress and sustainable development.
He highlighted key priority areas, including safety and security, education, healthcare, and support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), underscoring the government’s dedication to inclusive development and economic revitalization.
Addressing specific initiatives, Governor Sani outlined his government’s strides in security enhancement through the expansion of the state Vigilance Service, recruitment of 7,000 additional personnel, and procurement of operational vehicles and motorcycles for security agencies.
He also captured his efforts to address educational challenges, infrastructure development, and the promotion of rural prosperity, reiterating the administration’s resolve to rebuild trust and foster peace in Kaduna State.
