Bala Mohammed Lampoons APC-Led FG Over Poor 2024 Budget Implementation

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government, accusing it of gross inefficiency in managing the 2024 national budget.

According to the governor, barely 30 percent of the budget has been implemented, yet discussions have already shifted to the planning of the 2026 budget—a move he described as not only premature but also indicative of the government’s failure to deliver on its fiscal responsibilities.

Governor Bala made the remarks in Bauchi during a meeting with a delegation of former women leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Hajiya Inna Chiroma.

While addressing the delegation, he expressed frustration over the poor execution of capital projects and the disconnect between the federal government’s budgetary plans and actual performance.

“The federal government is not working. We are talking about 2026 when only 30 percent of the 2024 budget has been implemented. This is not governance, it is an insult to Nigerians,” Bala stated, warning that such poor financial discipline and lack of transparency could further erode public trust in the APC-led administration.

His comments echo earlier concerns raised by the National Assembly, which had flagged the slow pace of capital expenditure implementation in the 2024 fiscal year. Lawmakers noted that while recurrent expenditure—mainly salaries and overheads—had been mostly paid, capital projects meant to stimulate growth and development were largely neglected.

Governor Bala’s criticism comes at a time of growing economic unease in the country, with inflation, unemployment, and public debt rising steadily. Many Nigerians have expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of infrastructure delivery and economic reforms, raising questions about the credibility of budget projections and execution under the current administration.

In addition to his critique, the governor used the opportunity to reaffirm the PDP’s position as a viable alternative, calling on the party to strengthen its internal structures and renew its commitment to inclusive governance.

He specifically urged the PDP to uphold the 35% gender inclusion policy, highlighting his own administration’s appointments of women to key ministries such as Budget and Planning.

Bala praised the contribution of women to governance and urged the PDP to ensure that women are not relegated to ceremonial roles. He described the former women leaders as pillars of strength and stability within the party and encouraged them to remain active in mobilizing grassroots support ahead of future elections.

The governor’s remarks are likely to resonate within political and civic circles as the debate over federal budget implementation and accountability intensifies. As the nation edges closer to the 2027 general elections, budget performance is expected to be a key metric in evaluating the APC government’s stewardship and the PDP’s campaign narrative.