Infrastructure development is the bedrock of societal progress, a tangible reflection of a government’s commitment to improving the lives of its citizens. Across the globe, nations invest heavily in infrastructure, recognizing its role in economic growth and social welfare. However, in Kwara State, the narrative of infrastructural development seems more illusory than real, with promises outweighing tangible outcomes.
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s administration has consistently presented ambitious budgets, promising transformative infrastructure projects. Yet, the reality on the ground paints a starkly different picture. Despite the allocation of substantial funds, including more than ₦51 billion in loans and bonds and a significant increase in federal allocations, the actual capital expenditure performance for 2023 was a mere 45.2%, reflecting a significant gap between promises and delivery.
The available data shows that ₦135,131,064,726 was earmarked for capital expenditure; unfortunately, only ₦61,034,796,239 was utilized. A 45.2% is not a passing grade by any academic rating. This raises doubts about the administration’s ability to fulfill its promises, particularly regarding infrastructure development, despite its claims of a rigorous drive in this area.
One cannot help but compare this with the swift and impactful actions of leaders in other regions. Take, for instance, HM Nyesom Wike, who, within just nine months of assuming office, will be commissioning a slew of projects, including;
● The Abuja Metro train line
● Southern Parkway from the National Christian Centre to Ring Road 1.
● Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Villa Roundabout to Ring Road 1.
● Vice President’s official residence.
● B6 and B12 Circular Road, known as Independence and Constitution Avenues.
● Arterial Road, N20 from Northern Parkway (Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Expressway) to Outer Northern Expressway (Murtala Mohammed Expressway).
● Wuye Interchange.
● Guzape Lot II
District Infrastructure.
Projects like the Tanke flyover, visual art, and the garment factory, which have been touted as flagship projects, are yet to be completed fully, raising questions about the administration’s ability to deliver on its promises. Despite having robust internally generated revenue (IGR) and access to substantial funds, the impact on the ground remains minimal.
The disconnect between promises and reality is evident. While government officials praise the administration’s achievements, the lack of visible progress undermines these claims. It is time for Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq to follow the example of leaders like Nyesom Wike, who have shown that impactful governance is about delivering tangible results that improve lives.
As Kwarans look to the future, we need a government that prioritizes our welfare over political posturing. Governor Abdulrahman must translate his promises into action, turning the mirage of infrastructure development into a reality that Kwarans can see and feel.
The 2024 budget’s performance is disappointing. For instance, the first-quarter capital expenditure fell short, indicating governance challenges.
This is a government that budgeted ₦178,905,088,681 as capital expenditure, commended for its thought to make Capital Expenditure higher than recurrent expenditure, only to spend ₦20,148,183,197 in the first quarter (January to March), falling significantly short of the projected ₦44,726,272,170 for the same period. A clear evaluation of another failed budget implementation.
Governor Abdulrahman should consider a leadership training program under HM Nyesom Wike for improved performance.
Abdulyekeen Mohd Bashir writes from Liberty Junction, Ibadan.
