Nigeria Allocates N65 Billion for Ex-Militant Reintegration Amid Concerns Over Financial Mismanagement

The Nigerian government has earmarked N65 billion in the 2025 budget for the reintegration of ex-militants through the Presidential Amnesty Programme. This marks an increase from the N58 billion allocated last year, reaffirming the government’s commitment to transforming former militants in the Niger Delta into productive citizens....CONTINUE READING>>>

The programme focuses on providing training and opportunities to help ex-militants reintegrate into society. However, despite the significant funding, concerns are mounting over the management and transparency of the programme’s finances.

Financial Accountability Under Scrutiny

In 2024, N8.8 billion was allocated for the amnesty programme, but questions have been raised about how the funds were spent. The official website for the programme, osapnd.gov.ng, is currently non-functional, further fueling concerns about transparency.

An audit by the Auditor-General of the Federation revealed alarming financial irregularities, including:

• N6 billion withdrawn without proper auditing procedures.
• N1.53 billion in tuition fees disbursed without clear records to verify recipients’ identities.
• N3.62 billion raised without internal audit checks.
• N1.3 billion recorded in the cash book without corresponding paid vouchers.

These discrepancies have raised questions about accountability and the effective use of taxpayer funds.

Leadership and Corruption Controversies

The programme has also been plagued by leadership controversies. In 2020, then-President Muhammadu Buhari suspended Charles Dokubo, the programme’s coordinator, over corruption allegations related to fund management. Despite his suspension, issues of financial mismanagement persist.

Calls for Reforms and Transparency

With the proposed increase in funding for 2025, critics are calling for enhanced oversight and stricter financial controls to ensure the funds are used effectively and transparently. The ongoing concerns highlight the need for reforms to restore public trust and achieve the programme’s goals of peace and development in the Niger Delta.