On the domestic front, Bauchi State’s debt stood at ₦145.2 billion in September 2024 but dropped slightly to ₦143.9 billion by the end of the year, marking a reduction of ₦1.3 billion.
A SaharaReporters review of the newly released states’ debt portfolio has revealed that Bauchi State’s external debt grew from $185.2 million in June 2024 to $186.8million by the end of December 2024.
This increase comes amid growing calls for state governments to reduce their reliance on loans as a source of revenue.
On the domestic front, Bauchi State’s debt stood at ₦145.2 billion in September 2024 but dropped slightly to ₦143.9 billion by the end of the year, marking a reduction of ₦1.3 billion.
Despite this decrease, the state remains the fifth most indebted domestically in 2024.
Despite its rising debt profile, the 2025 budget approved for Bauchi State reveals some controversial allocations by the House of Assembly.
A total of ₦132 million has been earmarked for the purchase of 32 chairs and 32 tables—each costing ₦2 million. This has sparked concerns about financial mismanagement, particularly when viewed against the backdrop of the state’s economic challenges.
The budget also includes ₦440 million for 20 motor vehicles meant for principal officers, translating to ₦22 million per vehicle. Additionally, two 32-seater Toyota buses are expected to cost the state ₦118 million—₦59 million each. Another ₦16.8 million is allocated for seven laptop computers, averaging ₦2.4 million per unit. In the offices of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, ₦10 million has been set aside for a single photocopier machine, while ₦132 million is budgeted for six scanners, putting the cost per scanner at ₦22 million.
These allocations have drawn criticism from observers who argue that such expenditures are excessive, especially in light of the pressing developmental needs of the people of Bauchi State. In 2024 alone, the state spent ₦44.216 billion on debt servicing, further emphasising the heavy financial burden loans continue to impose.
