July 8, 2026 | Abuja
The Federal Government has denied reports that it spent ₦8.83 trillion outside the 2026 national budget, describing the claims as a misinterpretation of the International Monetary Fund’s Article IV report.
The clarification came amid public outcry and criticism from opposition figures who alleged that a huge chunk of 2025 expenditure was not captured in the budget.
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi had alleged “grand corruption,” claiming that about ₦8.83 trillion in 2025 government expenditure was not reflected in the national budget.
Government officials said the figure cited was not an “off-budget spending” but rather a misreading of data and classifications in the IMF’s Article IV consultation report. They insisted all government spending for 2025 was within appropriated provisions and subject to audit.
The denial follows other major fiscal disclosures this week. The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Engr. Bayo Ojulari, disclosed that the company remitted ₦19.5 trillion to the Federation Account between April 2025 and June 2026. The Nigeria Customs Service also reported generating ₦7.277 trillion in 2025, exceeding its target by 10.24%.
The controversy comes as the Federal Government pushes to improve transparency in public finance and as ministries present proposals for the 2026 budget. The government urged the public and media to verify fiscal data with official sources before drawing conclusions.
No evidence of unauthorized expenditure has been presented by the government, and officials said relevant agencies including the Office of the Accountant General and the Auditor General will provide further breakdowns if required.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow.
