Atiku Raises Questions Over ₦12.8 Trillion Service-Wide Vote in 2026 Budget
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Federal Government to provide a detailed explanation for the ₦12.8 trillion Service-Wide Vote (SWV) contained in the 2026 Appropriation Bill, describing the allocation as one that requires greater transparency and public accountability.
The former presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) said the significant increase in the Service-Wide Vote compared to the previous fiscal year deserves close examination by lawmakers and oversight institutions.
Concern Over Sharp Increase
In a statement released through his spokesman, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku noted that the Service-Wide Vote reportedly rose from ₦638 billion in 2025 to ₦12.8 trillion in the 2026 budget.
He argued that such a substantial increase should be accompanied by clear explanations detailing the projects, programmes, and expenditures covered under the allocation.
According to Atiku, transparent budgeting is essential for strengthening public confidence in government financial management.
Questions About Personnel Allocation
The former vice president also expressed concern over a reported ₦2.19 trillion personnel allocation under the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning within the Service-Wide Vote.
He questioned the basis for the figure and called for greater clarity regarding the agencies, personnel, and legal framework connected to the expenditure.
According to him, providing a detailed breakdown would help reassure Nigerians that public funds are being managed responsibly.
Call for Legislative Oversight
Atiku urged the National Assembly to conduct a comprehensive review of the Service-Wide Vote during its oversight of the federal budget.
He recommended a line-by-line examination of the allocations, particularly the personnel-related provisions, to ensure that every expenditure complies with existing financial regulations.
He maintained that effective legislative oversight remains one of the strongest safeguards against waste, duplication, and financial mismanagement.
Demand for Greater Transparency
The former vice president stated that openness in public finance is especially important at a time when many Nigerians continue to face economic challenges.
He argued that citizens deserve detailed information about how government resources are allocated and utilized, particularly when budgetary figures increase significantly from one fiscal year to another.
According to him, strengthening transparency would improve accountability and enhance public trust in government institutions.
Economic Accountability Remains Key
Atiku further emphasized that prudent management of public finances is essential for sustainable economic development.
He noted that responsible budgeting can improve investor confidence, strengthen service delivery, and ensure that government resources are directed toward priority sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security.
He maintained that transparent financial reporting remains an important element of good governance.
Awaiting Government Response
As public discussions continue, attention is expected to focus on whether the Federal Government or relevant agencies will provide additional clarification regarding the Service-Wide Vote and the concerns raised.
The National Assembly may also consider the issues during its ongoing budget oversight responsibilities.
Any official findings or responses will depend on the outcome of parliamentary reviews and statements issued by the relevant authorities.
Conclusion
The debate surrounding the ₦12.8 trillion Service-Wide Vote has added to ongoing discussions about transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s public finance system.
While Atiku Abubakar has called for detailed explanations and legislative scrutiny, any conclusions regarding the allocation will ultimately depend on official reviews and responses from the appropriate government institutions.
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