A hallmark of Nigeria’s political class is gain-driven philanthropy—publicized donations aimed at projecting empathy for the poor while masking self-interest. Some of these so-called “public-spirited donors” are under investigation for financial misconduct.
In mid-March, the House of Representatives embarked on one such high-profile donation. Speaker Abass Tajudeen presented a cheque of N705 million to President Bola Tinubu, claiming it was a six-month, 50% salary deduction from members to support the vulnerable. The lawmakers likely expected public applause, but Nigerians were largely indifferent, considering the massive allowances they receive—untouched in the spirit of economic hardship.
The Economist of London describes Nigeria’s lawmakers as the highest-paid in the world. In the 2024 budget, the 358 House members received N2.84 billion in salaries, while their allowances stood at N21.04 billion—nearly 10 times more. Senators received N868.3 million in salaries and N7.72 billion in allowances. Given these figures, the donation appears insignificant in addressing Nigeria’s dire economic situation.
With a national debt of N142 trillion, a 2025 budget deficit of N13.39 trillion, and N16.3 trillion allocated for debt servicing, Nigeria needs leaders focused on policies that attract investment, not lawmakers indulging in opulence while the masses struggle. Federal legislators must acknowledge that Nigeria’s budget—N54.99 trillion ($36.4 billion)—is too small for its 233 million population compared to Egypt’s $91 billion, Ghana’s $19 billion, and South Africa’s $141.4 billion budgets.
Rather than occasional token gestures, lawmakers must align their salaries with the nation’s economic reality, where 140 million citizens live in multidimensional poverty. They must enact laws that curb corruption, reduce governance costs, and drive economic growth. It’s time to prioritize systemic solutions over grandstanding philanthropy.
