A recent report by BudgIT, a civic‑tech non‑profit, revealed that only seven states in Nigeria implemented more than 80 percent of their health budgets in 2024. Titled *A Decade of Subnational Fiscal Analysis*, the report was launched in Abuja and underscored the need for states to prioritise health funding. Collectively, Nigerian states budgeted N1.32 trillion for health in 2024, but actual spending fell short at N816.64 billion, representing a 61.9 percent budget performance.
Yobe state led with a 98.2 percent implementation rate, followed by Gombe, Ekiti, Lagos, Edo, Delta and Bauchi. On average, states spent N3,483 per person on health, and no state exceeded N10,000 per capita. Only Lagos, Bayelsa, Edo, Abia, Kwara, Niger and Delta spent more than N5,000 per person.
Mr Oluseun Onigbinde, Global Director of BudgIT, warned that despite increased revenue inflows, much of the additional income has not been effectively channelled into critical social services such as healthcare. The report calls for greater fiscal accountability, innovation and investment in sectors that directly impact citizens.
Dr Uche Amaonwu, Nigeria Country Director of the Gates Foundation, congratulated BudgIT on promoting fiscal transparency and accountability, noting that sound fiscal systems and governance improve service delivery and empower citizens. The findings have significant implications for Nigeria’s healthcare system, highlighting the need for better fiscal management and prioritisation of health funding.
As the country faces numerous healthcare challenges, the report’s call to action is timely. States must take ownership of their performance and adopt strong financial‑management practices to ensure every naira allocated to healthcare delivers real impact. The 2025 BudgIT State of States Report marks a decade of subnational fiscal analysis in Nigeria, showing both progress and persistent challenges. Key findings include strong growth in total state revenue—particularly from FAAC transfers and internally generated revenue—though many states remain heavily reliant on federal allocations. As Nigeria navigates its fiscal challenges, the report’s recommendations for deeper fiscal reforms, responsible debt management and greater investment in education and health are crucial for the country’s development.
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