Zamfara receives over N1.25bn ecology funds in 2024, yet spends nothing on erosion, flood control
By Aminu Abubakar
Despite mounting environmental challenges, especially in flood-prone states like Zamfara, the Ecological Fund has seen substantial inflows in 2024 without any corresponding expenditure on erosion or flood control, raising serious concerns about transparency and governmental priorities.
Massive Inflows, Zero Disbursements
Between January and November 2024, the state received a total of over N1.258 billion as ecological funds.
However, not a single naira was allocated to erosion or flood mitigation projects during this period, marking the third consecutive year of inaction in this critical area.
A breakdown of monthly allocations shows a steady stream of funds:
January: N112 million
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February: N124.1 million
March: N102.5 million
April: N95.7 million
May: N113 million
June: N105.4 million
July: N135.8 million
August: N122.2 million
September: N104.9 million
October: N122.1 million
November: N120.9 million
Environmental Crisis Amid Budget Neglect
The continued lack of disbursement for erosion and flood control comes at a time when communities across Nigeria, particularly in the northwestern region, are battling increasingly severe weather events linked to climate change.
In August 2024, a devastating flood in Gummi Town, Zamfara State, killed at least 11 people, destroyed over 500 homes, and displaced more than 10,000 residents. Farmlands and other properties worth millions of naira were lost, further worsening food insecurity and economic hardship in the area.
Earmarked Budgets Left Untouched
According to official budget documents:
In 2024, N1.52 billion was earmarked for erosion and flood control in Zamfara State.
In 2023, N1 billion was budgeted for the same purpose.
In 2022, the allocation was N42.5 million.
Yet, in all three years, actual spending for these interventions remained zero naira — a revelation that has drawn widespread criticism from civil society organizations and environmental advocates.
Contrasting Government Priorities
While funds meant to address environmental threats lie dormant, other areas of the state budget have seen generous allocations. In 2024:
N1.4 billion was allocated for food purchases.
N3.681 billion was allocated for international travels.
Additionally, a SolaceBase review of the 2025 Zamfara State budget reveals:
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N550 million earmarked for special days and celebrations.
N800 million allocated to travel expenses for the Office of the Governor:
N300 million for local travel and transport
N500 million for international travel and transport
N100 million allocated for donations by the governor.
These figures highlight a stark contrast between the urgency of environmental needs and the areas where funds are actually being spent.
Calls for Accountability and Urgent Action
Environmental experts and affected communities are increasingly vocal in demanding accountability from the Zamfara State Government and relevant federal authorities.
There are fears that without meaningful action, residents will continue to be victims of immense flooding and devastating effects from this.
Activists argue that the Ecological Fund, designed to respond to natural disasters and environmental degradation, must be used for its intended purpose — not sidelined for political or administrative convenience.
A Pattern That Must Be Corrected
As flooding becomes more frequent and severe due to climate change, the need for proactive erosion and flood control measures has never been greater. The recurring trend of unspent ecological funds, even amid declared environmental emergencies, threatens to deepen the crisis and erode public trust.
Only with decisive, transparent action can lives, livelihoods, and the environment be protected from further devastation.
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