The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed has on behalf of the federal government confirmed the purchase of 10 SUVs worth N1.15 billion for neighbouring country, the Republic of Niger.
The Minister explained that the federal government of Nigeria supported the neighbouring country to enable it to defend its territory against insecurity.
What’s more
Nigeria’s finance minister disclosed that this is not the first time the Nigerian government is supporting neighbouring countries through monetary contributions. However, the Minister said that President Muhammadu Buhari has a responsibility to act in the country’s interest.
Zainab Ahmed’s statement to the press reads in part, “let me just say that, over time, Nigeria has had to support its neighbours, especially immediate neighbours, to enhance their capacity to secure their countries as it relates to us.”
“Nigerians have a right to ask questions, but also the President has a responsibility to make an assessment of what is in the best interests of the country. And I cannot question that decision.”
What you should know
This news was welcomed by angry outrage from the Nigerian public who argued that funding part of a foreign country’s budget should not be the federal government’s priority amidst the economic crisis Nigeria is facing including an ongoing strike by ASUU, crashing of the naira, etc.