Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has sparked a heated debate over the federal government’s proposed allocation of N146.14 billion for the Lagos Green Line Metro Rail project in the 2025 budget. His remarks have stirred reactions from across the country, highlighting regional sensitivities and political divides.
El-Rufai, in a public statement, questioned the rationale behind funding a state-specific project with federal resources. “This raises many questions,” he said. “If this is counterpart funding from a recapitalized MOFI [Ministry of Finance Incorporated], why is the money coming from the budget of a federal ministry? Why can’t MOFI raise its counterpart funding from the market?”
He further argued that the allocation represents 65% of the capital budget and 57% of the entire Ministry of Transport’s budget. “How was the decision arrived at that this is a project to invest federal money into? Will such a facility be available to other states outside of Lagos?” he queried.
The Green Line Metro Rail project, part of Lagos State’s ambitious infrastructure plans, aims to ease congestion in the country’s commercial capital. However, its federal funding has been criticized for potentially sidelining other regions’ developmental needs.
Critics argue that federal resources should be evenly distributed to foster balanced national development. El-Rufai’s concerns echo long-standing grievances about perceived favoritism toward Lagos, a city that already benefits from significant internally generated revenue (IGR).
El-Rufai’s comments have ignited a storm of responses on social media. While some lauded his scrutiny of government spending, others accused him of hypocrisy. Critics pointed to similar projects under former President Muhammadu Buhari, including the controversial construction of a rail line connecting Nigeria to Niger Republic.
“El-Rufai was silent when federal funds were used to build a railway to Niger Republic,” wrote a commenter on a popular online forum. “Why speak up now when the focus is Lagos?”
Others defended the project, arguing that Lagos’ economic significance justifies federal investment. “Lagos is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy,” another commenter said. “A functional metro system benefits everyone, not just Lagosians.”
The debate has also drawn attention to El-Rufai’s political motivations. Some allege his criticism stems from being sidelined in the current administration. “If Tinubu had given him a ministerial post, he wouldn’t be raising these questions,” a political observer remarked.
El-Rufai’s critique underscores broader concerns about Nigeria’s budgeting priorities. The country faces significant challenges, including high inflation, unemployment, and security crises. Critics argue that infrastructure projects like the Lagos Metro, while beneficial, should not overshadow urgent national needs.
“We must prioritize human development and food security,” said Habbey Yusuf, an economist. “Spending billions on a single project in Lagos, while other states struggle with basic amenities, is questionable.”
The Lagos Green Line Metro is expected to connect key parts of the city, reducing travel time and boosting economic activity. Lagos State officials argue that the project is critical for Nigeria’s overall economic health, given Lagos’ role as a financial hub.
This is not the first time federal investments in Lagos have sparked controversy. The state, often seen as Nigeria’s most developed, has historically attracted substantial federal support. Critics argue this creates disparities, with other regions feeling neglected.
The 2025 budget proposal has now become a litmus test for the Tinubu administration’s commitment to equitable development. While Lagos continues to be a focal point, many Nigerians are demanding transparency and inclusivity in government spending.
