Severally, Nigerian states have found themselves in a financial conundrum, unable to meet their obligations to pay salaries without external assistance. This situation has led to an unprecedented reliance on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for what is termed the Salary Bailout Facility (SBF).
A whopping sum of N457.17 billion has been borrowed by no fewer than 31 state governments to ensure their civil servants are not left without their hard-earned wages. This article delves into the top 10 states that have turned to the CBN for salary payments, shedding light on the economic challenges they face.
Imo State
Topping the list is Imo State, which has borrowed a substantial amount of N20.46 billion from the CBN. The state’s economy, heavily reliant on oil and agriculture, has struggled to keep up with the demands of its large public sector workforce, resulting in the need for significant borrowing to manage salary payments.
Kogi State
Close on the heels of Imo is Kogi State, with a loan amount of N20.26 billion. Despite its strategic location and abundant natural mineral resources, Kogi faces economic challenges that have necessitated borrowing for salaries. It’s noteworthy that Kogi is also considered the most expensive state to live in Nigeria.
Kano State
Kano State, Northern Nigeria’s key commercial and agricultural hub, borrowed N20.21 billion. The substantial loan amount reflects the state’s large civil service and its efforts to maintain stability in government services amidst economic pressures.
Oyo State
Oyo State, with its vibrant urban center of Ibadan, secured a loan of N16.81 billion. Despite its sizable population and economy, Oyo had to seek fiscal support from the CBN to fulfill its salary obligations.
Osun State
Osun State, known for its tourist attractions like the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, borrowed N15.93 billion. The state’s diverse economic activities have not been sufficient to prevent the need for central borrowing for salary payments.
Edo State
Edo State, with its rich historical and cultural significance, obtained a loan of N15.76 billion. The state has sought financial intervention from the CBN to meet its governmental obligations amidst fiscal strains.
Benue State
Benue, the “Food Basket of the Nation,” required a loan of N15.7 billion from CBN. Despite its agricultural prowess, the state has faced fiscal challenges in managing its administrative responsibilities, leading to borrowing for salaries.
Ondo State
Ondo State, renowned for its cocoa production, borrowed N14.86 billion. The state’s reliance on federal allocations and borrowing indicates a need to diversify its revenue base to sustain its administrative functions.
Kaduna State
Kaduna State, a key industrial center in Northern Nigeria, follows with a loan of N14.47 billion. The state’s borrowing underscores the economic pressures it faces, compounded by struggles with insecurity.
Abia State
Rounding off the list is Abia State, with a loan amount of N14.27 billion. Known for its commercial hub in Aba, the state has navigated economic challenges, leading to borrowing for salary payments.
The reliance on the CBN for salaries by these states highlights the broader economic challenges faced by Nigerian states. From issues of diversification to managing large public sector workforces, the need for fiscal support from the central bank underscores the importance of sustainable economic policies and strategies.
As these states work towards financial independence, the role of the CBN remains crucial in ensuring that civil servants receive their due wages, maintaining stability and morale in the public sector.
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