The Minister of Budget and National Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, has revealed that the monthly salary of ministers in Nigeria is less than N1,000,000.
News About Nigeria reports that this disclosure was made during an interview with Channels Television, where Bagudu addressed concerns about the increasing cost of governance in the country.
He acknowledged that the current cost of governance is a source of worry, especially considering the economic challenges facing the nation.
Bagudu, who previously served as the governor of Kebbi State, stated that the government is aware of the citizens’ demands for a reduction in the cost of governance.
He assured that the government is committed to engaging in dialogue with citizens to address the economic challenges facing the country.
The minister’s statement comes amidst ongoing hunger protests across major cities in Nigeria, with protesters calling for a reduction in the cost of governance, among other demands.
Bagudu’s admission about the ministers’ salaries may be seen as a step towards transparency and accountability in governance.
Speaking to citizens’ demands, Bagudu said the government had taken note and would continue to dialogue with citizens to address the nation’s economic challenges.
“The cost of governance is worrisome, particularly me because I see how the kitty is allocated so I know that we are not anywhere near where we want to be. So any savings from any quarter is important. Ministers line any public officers is determined by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission. I have one official vehicle but I don’t use it, I have a vehicle I love using.
“In terms of how much Ministers are paid is less than a million Naira. I don’t know of any defined allowance that the Minister has but I might be wrong”, he said.
It is worth noting that the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission determines the salaries of ministers and other public officers.
