Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has openly criticized the Federal Government's recent approval of ₦142 billion for the construction of bus terminals across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones, labeling the move as a glaring example of misplaced priorities.
In a statement released on his verified social media account, Obi emphasized that the success or failure of a nation's development hinges on how it prioritizes its scarce resources. He argued that allocating such a substantial sum to bus terminals, while the health sector remains underfunded, reflects a lack of competence and focus in leadership.
Obi pointed out that the combined budget for all teaching hospitals and federal psychiatric centers in Nigeria is under ₦100 billion in the 2024 budget. He questioned the rationale behind spending more on bus terminals than on critical healthcare infrastructure, especially when over 20 million Nigerians are reportedly living with mental health issues.
The former Anambra State governor described the decision as not only a misplaced priority but also a tragic irony, highlighting the deteriorating state of the nation's healthcare system. He stressed that such spending choices are disturbing and do not align with the pressing needs of the populace.
Obi's critique comes in the wake of the Federal Executive Council's approval of the bus terminal project, which aims to modernize transport infrastructure and boost connectivity nationwide. However, the decision has sparked debates about the government's spending priorities, especially in sectors critical to human development.
In his statement, Obi reiterated that development is about choices and that prioritizing infrastructure projects over essential services like healthcare and education undermines the nation's progress. He called for a reevaluation of budgetary allocations to reflect the urgent needs of Nigerians.
The former presidential candidate has been vocal about what he perceives as insensitive and undeserving allocations in the national budget. He previously criticized the government's decision to allocate ₦712 billion for airport renovations amid rising hunger and poverty levels in the country.
Obi's consistent emphasis on human capital development underscores his belief that investments in health, education, and poverty alleviation should take precedence over grandiose infrastructure projects.
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