By Gabriella Ogbu
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has called on the Federal Government to explain why Nigerians no longer benefit directly from the country’s oil and gas resources, particularly subsidies.
The governor raised this concern on Monday during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun.
The visit was in preparation for the 2024 National Council on Finance and Economic Development (NACOFED) conference, which Bauchi State is set to host.
Governor Mohammed criticized the lack of tangible benefits for Nigerians despite the country’s status as one of the largest oil producers in the world.
He questioned the resource distribution policies of the current administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, and called for greater transparency.
“It’s a miracle that we are one of the biggest oil-producing nations, yet we have not benefited for some time now.
“The government must explain this to the people. Transparency and inclusion are key,” the governor said.
He stressed the need for effective management of oil proceeds to ensure they are deposited into the national treasury and equitably distributed among states.
Highlighting the critical role of states in national development, he stated, “You need to boost production and ensure that the resources are deposited into our national treasury so they can be equitably distributed.
“Financial services must be provided to the states to help us improve productivity and manage resources efficiently. Without us, there is no Federal Government.”
Governor Mohammed clarified that his demand was not confrontational but rooted in the need for fairness and transparency in resource allocation.
“All we ask for is transparency and for everyone to be treated equally,” he added, reiterating his loyalty to the Federal Government.
In his remarks, Minister Wale Edun explained that his visit was part of preparations for the 2024 NACOFED conference.
He commended Governor Mohammed for hosting the event and highlighted its significance as a platform for fostering trust and understanding of the financial and economic needs of Nigeria’s states.
“The conference will provide a platform for meaningful conversations that foster trust, improve understanding of each state’s financial and economic needs, and recognize the resources, skills, and potential available across the country,” Edun stated.
The minister concluded by emphasizing that insights from the conference would contribute significantly to unlocking Nigeria’s full potential at both individual and collective levels.
