The Federal Government has earmarked N2.3 billion in the 2025 budget for the entitlements of Nigeria’s former presidents and heads of state. This allocation includes notable figures such as Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibrahim Babangida, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari, Yakubu Gowon, and Abdulsalami Abubakar, among others.
The funds, categorized under “Entitlements of Former Presidents/Heads of State and Vice Presidents/Chiefs of General Staff,” will cover their statutory benefits, pensions, medical care, and logistics, as outlined in Nigerian law. These provisions also extend to vice presidents and chiefs of general staff, including Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, Yemi Osinbajo, and Okoh Ebitu Ukiwe.
Breakdown of benefits
Under the guidelines of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), former presidents and their deputies are entitled to the following:
- Annual Pensions: Equivalent to the salary of a sitting president or vice president.
- Medical Care: For themselves and their immediate families.
- Residential Upkeep: Covering staff salaries, utilities, and other household needs.
- Transportation and Logistics: Support for local and international travel.
Budget context
The allocation is part of the Federal Government’s recurrent expenditure within the proposed N49.70 trillion 2025 budget, which President Bola Tinubu presented to the National Assembly on December 18, 2024. Dubbed the “Budget of Restoration,” the spending plan prioritizes defence, infrastructure development, and human capital investments.
However, the budget includes a significant projected deficit of N13.39 trillion, to be financed through borrowing. Economists have raised concerns about Nigeria’s growing debt burden, warning that unchecked borrowing could undermine fiscal stability, lower credit ratings, and limit access to affordable financing.
Despite the challenges, the government has emphasized its commitment to fulfilling statutory obligations, including the entitlements of former leaders, as part of its broader fiscal strategy.
This allocation underscores the Federal Government’s recognition of the contributions of Nigeria’s past leaders while highlighting the ongoing fiscal pressures facing the country.
