Nasarawa Government Denies Reports of N707 Million Expenditure on Meals

The government of Nasarawa State has rejected an online assertion that it spent N707 million on meals and refreshments, labeling the report as false, misleading, and defamatory.

In a statement issued by Mr. Peter Ahemba, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to Governor Abdullahi Sule, the administration clarified that the mentioned amount is a cumulative figure representing expenditures across various ministries, departments, and agencies over the past nine months, rather than a singular discretionary expense.

The state government explained that this amount encompasses statutory and operational costs that include meetings, training sessions, workshops, security operations, and program implementations in different MDAs, in stark contrast to the allegations that it was used only for meals and refreshments.

Furthermore, the claims that such spending has hampered rural water provision were dismissed as “ridiculous”. The government emphasized its ongoing commitment to enhancing water infrastructure in the state, which has seen considerable investment since 2019.

The statement highlighted initiatives carried out in collaboration with the State Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, the Ministry of Water Resources, the State Water Board, and various development partners. These initiatives include the rehabilitation and upgrading of water facilities in numerous towns, such as Doma, Keana, Awe, Lafia, Nasarawa Eggon, Keffi, and Karu.

These projects involve multiple aspects such as borehole rehabilitation, pump replacements, power connections, dredging, facility renovations, and the procurement of operational equipment. Collectively, these efforts amount to billions of naira aimed at improving access to clean water for both rural and urban residents.

The government urged media organizations, particularly Sahara Reporters, to verify their information before publication to prevent misleading the public. It also called on citizens to disregard the misleading report entirely.

The state administration reiterated its commitment to the responsible use of public funds and prioritizing the welfare of its citizens. It highlighted various verifiable projects across the state that challenge the claims of neglect.