FG seeks National Assembly approval for $1.5 billion loan for states’ projects

 

 

 

Federal government is seeking approval from National Assembly to borrow $1.5 billion from international lenders to fund projects in a number of the country’s states, a letter by the acting president said on Tuesday.
The OPEC member, which has Africa’s largest economy, is grappling with its first recession in 25 years which was largely brought on by low oil prices and the impact of attacks on energy facilities in the Niger Delta.
Crude sales makes up two-thirds of government revenues which are then shared among the country’s 36 states.
In a letter read out in both chambers of parliament, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo requested that external borrowing for infrastructure projects in some Nigerian states should be earmarked for “accelerated consideration”.
“The request for the separation of the state projects became imperative in view of the current economic reality in the country and the pressing need of these states to provide infrastructural and social amenities for their citizens,” stated the letter.