Bayelsa budget review shows huge spending for celebrations

A review of the Bayelsa State budget performance document revealed that for the 2024 fiscal year, the state has allocated N5.4 billion for anniversaries and celebrations. In comparison, budgets for critical sectors are significantly lower, with N1.5 billion set aside for the rehabilitation of hospitals and health centers, and N3.9 billion for public schools. The allocation for road rehabilitation is only N1.5 billion, while the largest expenditure listed is N4.3 billion for the rehabilitation of residential buildings, still less than the budget for celebrations.

Additionally, N1.5 billion is designated for water facilities, despite 95% of households lacking access to sanitary facilities and 78% not having clean drinking water. Unemployment in the state was reported at 36.7% in 2022 by the National Bureau of Statistics. This budget comes amid increasing calls to reassess the cost of governance. Recently, the state allocated N420 million for Christmas decorations and praise night, which includes N230.3 million for the praise night and thanksgiving service and N190 million for Christmas decorations.