Kaduna: El-Rufai left behind $587m, N85bn bebts, 115 contract liabilities – Gov Sani

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has revealed that his administration inherited a substantial debt burden of $587 million, N85 billion, along with 115 contractual liabilities from the previous governor of the state, Nasir El-Rufai.

Speaking at a town hall meeting in Kaduna on Saturday, Governor Sani expressed concern that the significant debt burden was deeply affecting the state’s federal allocation. He explained that due to the surge in the exchange rate, the state is now repaying almost triple the amount borrowed by the previous administration.

The governor highlighted that N7 billion out of the N10 billion federal allocation for the state in March was utilized to service the state’s debt.

Furthermore, he lamented that the state was left with only N3 billion, an amount insufficient to cover the monthly salary bill of N5.2 billion.

Governor Sani emphasized that despite the inherited debt, his administration has not taken on “a single kobo” of new debt in the nine months of his government.

“Despite the huge debt burden of $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities sadly inherited from the previous administration, we remain resolute in steering Kaduna State towards progress and sustainable development,” he stated.

The governor outlined the key priority areas of his government, including safety and security, housing, education, healthcare, and support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

He reiterated the commitment of his administration to prioritize inclusive development through investments in human capital, economic stimulation, and provision of affordable housing.

Governor Sani further detailed the top priorities for 2024, which include safety and security, infrastructural development, education, housing and urban development, social intervention, and investment drive, among others.

During the meeting, former Chief of Defence Staff, General Martin Luther Agwai (retd), emphasized the need to address the security challenges facing the state, noting that peace and security are prerequisites for meaningful development.

He commended Governor Sani for implementing cost-cutting measures in light of the state’s debt burden. General Agwai urged all residents to set aside political, religious, or ethnic differences and support the state government in overcoming the debt challenge.

Emir of Zazzau, Ahmad Nuhu Bamali, expressed optimism despite the state’s challenges, affirming the governor’s capability to revitalize the state’s economy for effective development. He pledged the support of all traditional rulers in the state to ensure the success of the current administration.