Kwara Spends N922 Million on Presidential Lodge and Guest Chalets, Neglecting Water Facilities

Kwara State’s budget performance document for the 2024 fiscal year has raised significant concerns regarding the state’s expenditure priorities, particularly with regard to the allocation of funds to the presidential lodge and guest chalets.

According to the report, between January and September 2024, a substantial N922 million was spent on these luxury facilities, a large portion of the initial N1 billion allocated for this purpose in the 2024 budget. This is despite the fact that the state’s total budget for the year, which amounts to N292.741 billion, was approved with an eye toward addressing more pressing social needs.

The emphasis on the presidential lodge and guest chalets, in contrast to the comparatively modest allocations for public health and infrastructure, has led to questions about the state’s priorities and the efficiency with which public funds are being utilized.

The budget document reveals a stark contrast in the allocation of funds for essential services. Despite the state’s allocation of N700 million for the repair and rehabilitation of water facilities, no money was spent on this critical area between January and September 2024.

This is especially troubling given that a significant portion of the state’s population still lacks access to basic sanitation and clean drinking water. According to recent reports, 75% of households in Kwara State do not have access to sanitary facilities, and 42% are without access to clean drinking water.

In comparison, while water-related projects received no funds during the period, a significant N479 million was spent on repairs for hospitals and health centers. However, given the state’s widespread infrastructure needs, particularly in terms of water and sanitation, many have questioned whether the focus on these health facilities is enough to meet the broader public health needs of the population.

The Kwara State government’s prioritization of luxury expenditures, such as the presidential lodge, over urgent infrastructural needs highlights a broader issue of governance and public resource management. The N490 million spent on health and medical equipment, as well as substantial allocations for the ministries of water resources (N711 million), energy (N204 million), and communication (N293.5 million), further raise concerns about the allocation of funds in a state with pressing issues of poverty and infrastructure deficiencies.

The stark contrast between luxury spending and the unmet needs of the most vulnerable communities in Kwara underscores the growing frustration among citizens, who see basic services being neglected while high-profile, non-essential projects continue to receive funding.

This situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing the needs of the public, especially the most marginalized, and ensuring that public funds are used effectively to address critical issues such as access to clean water and sanitation.