The recent revelation that the Nigerian government invested ₦393.29 billion in 1,477 streetlight projects in the 2025 budget, at an average of ₦266 million per unit, has caused widespread public outcry and outrage. The jaw-dropping figure, which was brought to light by BudgIT, a civic organization, suggests an unexplainable inflation of costs. You do not need to be a market rat or expert to know that the figure runs against market reality. Nothing in the features of a streetlight to be mounted on a Nigerian street should make it cost ₦266 million.
To set things in perspective, top-tier solar-powered streetlights are estimated by players in the industry to cost between ₦500,000 and ₦2 million, depending on specifications and installation challenges. The planned amount per unit is therefore over 100 times higher than market rates. It calls into question the credibility of the budgeting process.
A Pattern of Fiscal Irregularities
If you think this is the worst-case scenario, know that it is not an isolated case. The 2025 budget, as a matter of fact, is reported to have over 11,000 projects associated with overpricing and questionable utility, added by the National Assembly, amounting to ₦6.93 trillion. An English Prime Minister once said that Nigeria is “fantastically corrupt,” and the evidence leaves much to be desired vis-à-vis good governance.
The payment of ₦266 million per streetlight is no doubt a brazen disregard for accountability by political leaders and a show of political high-handedness. One begins to ask: at what point do they consider answering to the people they represent? So far, it is clear that they have no concern for public trust or confidence.
The Need for Accountability and Reform
It is important that the government acts swiftly to correct these issues. Obviously, it will be given a political coloration or said to be an issue raised by the opposition to score political points. That should not be the case. If public trust means anything to these leaders, a comprehensive audit of the budgetary expenses must be carried out. Furthermore, action must be taken against officials responsible for any wrongdoing, and strict measures put in place to preclude further incidents.
It cannot be overstated that transparency and accountability must be the foundation of Nigeria’s budget process. The people have a right to insist that their taxes be spent properly and efficiently to strengthen public facilities and services. It is unacceptable and unsustainable that vast amounts of money are spent on small niceties like streetlights.
Conclusion
The ₦266 million per streetlight budgetary provision in the 2025 budget is a harsh expression of fiscal irresponsibility. It serves as a witness to the need for comprehensive budget reforms to ensure that public money is handled with transparency and integrity. The government must act swiftly to correct these ills and restore public confidence in its fiscal handling.
