ABUJA, Nigeria | August 1, 2026
The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has criticised the Federal Government over the allocation of ₦22.15 billion for the construction and renovation of royal palaces in the proposed 2026 budget, describing the expenditure as inappropriate amid the country’s ongoing economic challenges.
In a statement signed by the Forum’s Coordinator, Andrew Emelieze, and General Secretary, Ogundele Ayo, the group said the budgetary allocation comes at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with rising inflation, increasing living costs, and widespread economic hardship.
The Forum argued that government spending should focus on improving the welfare of citizens through better wages, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social protection rather than projects it described as non-essential.
The workers’ group also called for greater transparency in the management of public finances, referencing reports of an alleged ₦8 trillion omission from the proposed 2026 budget. It acknowledged that the Federal Government has denied the allegation but maintained that more detailed public accountability is necessary.
Additionally, the Forum questioned the reported involvement of some government agencies and research institutions in funding palace-related projects, saying such allocations should be consistent with the statutory responsibilities of those institutions.
The organisation urged the Federal Government to publish the full details of the palace-related allocations, review what it described as questionable budget provisions, and implement a ₦300,000 living wage for federal workers.
The criticism follows reports that the proposed 2026 budget includes ₦22.15 billion for the construction and renovation of 106 palace projects across the country, some of which reportedly include furniture and solar installations. Reports have also raised concerns that several of the listed projects do not have publicly identified locations, prompting calls for increased transparency.
As of the time of this report, the Federal Government has not issued a new response to the Forum’s latest statement.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more official reactions emerge.
