In the heart of Nigeria, the Northern-Central and Northern-Western states grapple with a complex web of challenges that intertwine financial difficulties, security concerns, and stunted foreign investments. An examination conducted by The Findwhosabi reveals a stark reality that these states must confront.
In these regions, 77 percent of the states find themselves ensnared in a nexus of financial woes, lackluster foreign investment, and an escalating wave of banditry. Ten states, including Zamfara, Katsina, Niger, Plateau, Kano, Jigawa, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Sokoto, and Kaduna, bear the brunt of this turbulent storm.
A glance at internally generated revenue (IGR) exposes their struggles. Despite efforts, these states lag behind the national average, particularly when compared to economic powerhouses like Lagos. The IGR disparity, reflected in paltry first-quarter figures, highlights a financial crisis that stifles growth.
In the first quarter of 2023, Zamfara State’s IGR stood at a mere N4.28bn, paling in comparison to figures from other states like Delta, Kwara, Edo, and Anambra. This dire state of affairs has led to budget cuts, with Zamfara’s N126.7bn proposal trimmed to N117.5bn due to weak IGR stemming from insecurity.
The situation is compounded by their inability to attract substantial foreign investments. Out of the 10 states contending with banditry, only four – Katsina, Niger, Plateau, and Kano – managed to draw in foreign investment, and even those were modest.
Despite attempts to quell the tide of banditry, the Northern-Central and Northern-Western states continue to be rocked by insecurity. This upheaval has not only endangered lives but also devastated the agricultural sector, as farmers, gripped by fear, abandon their lands. Land once fertile with potential lies fallow, affecting food production and livelihoods.
The cycle is daunting – poor finances hinder efforts to strengthen security, while insecurity drives away potential investors, further exacerbating economic struggles. This cascade of challenges underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions that address not only security but also economic growth.
The resilience of these states, however, should not be underestimated. Governments and citizens alike are taking strides to reclaim their land from the grip of banditry, increase IGR, and promote investments. As the nation watches, these states grapple with adversity and work towards a more stable, prosperous future.