“Buhari Left N75tn Debt, Tinubu Has Added About N80tn More” — Senator Aliero Raises Concern Over Nigeria’s Rising Debt

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Land Transport, Senator Adamu Aliero, has expressed concern over Nigeria’s rising public debt, stating that the current administration inherited about ₦75 trillion in debt and has since added nearly ₦80 trillion through fresh borrowings.

The Kebbi Central lawmaker made the remarks while speaking on the implementation of the 2026 national budget, warning that despite the increasing debt profile, the country’s budget performance remains below expectations.

According to Aliero, Nigeria’s growing debt burden should be a source of concern for both the government and citizens.

“What I’m saying is in the public domain. It’s not anything hidden,” the senator said.

“When this government came in, it inherited, I think, over ₦75 trillion. Now it has added almost ₦75 trillion to ₦83 trillion in borrowing.”

He noted that despite the additional borrowing, the level of budget implementation has not met the expectations of lawmakers.

“And despite this budget implementation, it’s nowhere near where we want it to be,” Aliero said.

The senator aligned his concerns with earlier observations made by the Senate Chief Whip, who had also questioned the pace of budget execution.

He further disclosed that implementation of the 2026 Appropriation Act has yet to fully commence, months after it was signed into law.

“We have not even started implementing the 2026 budget,” he added.

Aliero’s comments come amid ongoing debates over the Federal Government’s borrowing strategy, with economists and financial analysts urging the government to ensure that loans are tied to productive investments capable of stimulating economic growth and generating revenue.

The Tinubu administration has consistently defended its borrowing policy, arguing that loans are necessary to finance critical infrastructure, bridge funding gaps and support economic reforms inherited from previous administrations.

However, critics have repeatedly warned that Nigeria’s rising debt servicing obligations could reduce the funds available for key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure and social development.

The latest remarks by the senator are expected to fuel fresh discussions within the National Assembly over fiscal discipline, budget implementation and the country’s long-term debt sustainability.