The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has called on the Federal Government to provide clarity regarding the current state of oil subsidies and resource distribution across Nigeria. Speaking on Monday during a visit from the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, Governor Mohammed stressed the need for transparency in the management of the nation’s vast oil and gas resources, especially as Nigerians have seen little benefit since President Bola Tinubu took office.

Governor Mohammed questioned why, despite Nigeria being one of the world’s largest oil producers, the population has not reaped the rewards from oil and gas resources in recent years. He urged the Federal Government to provide a clear explanation about the allocation of subsidies, asserting that such information is crucial for fostering a sense of inclusion among citizens. “If you don’t communicate it, no one will understand the challenges you face. Some of us are aware, but the public needs to be informed,” he said.

ALSO READ: Governor Bala Mohammed Calls on Tinubu to Reevaluate Tax Reforms and Avoid Regional Polarization

Further emphasizing the importance of resource management, Mohammed called for enhanced efforts in both oil production and the equitable distribution of resources to states. “The oil sector must not only produce and sell but ensure the proceeds benefit our national Treasury and are fairly shared among all states,” he remarked.

Governor Mohammed also highlighted the need for improved financial services at the subnational level to boost productivity and help states wisely manage resources. “Without us, there would be no Federal Government,” he added, reaffirming his support for the national government, albeit with a strong request for equal treatment and accountability.

Earlier in the day, Minister Wale Edun had explained that his visit was to mark Bauchi’s role as the host state for the 2024 Conference for the National Council on Finance and Economic Development. Edun expressed gratitude to Governor Mohammed for hosting the event and emphasized the significance of the conference in fostering trust, clarifying economic challenges, and strengthening the collaboration between different levels of government.