Bagudu: I shun convoy, drive around in Camry because I want to live by example

Minister of Budget and National Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, has reacted to the increasing cost of governance in Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu-led administration.

Speaking Saturday on Channels Television, the ex-Kebbi governor, who admitted that the cost of governance in the country is worrisome,  disclosed that ministers in Nigeria earn less than N1milion monthly.

This is coming as hunger protests entered day three across major cities in Nigeria.

The call for a reduction in the cost of governance is among the demands of the protesters.

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However, according to Bagudu, the government had taken note and would continue to dialogue with citizens to address the nation’s economic challenges.

He said: “The cost of governance is a worrisome thing, particularly to me, because I see how the kitty is allocated, so I know that we are not anywhere near where we want to be. So, any savings from whatever quarter is important. How are ministers compensated ?

“Ministers, like every public officer, have a payment that is determined by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC). Convoy? I have one official vehicle but I don’t even use it, I have a Camry that I enjoy driving and as a minister of budget, I want to lead by example.

“In terms of how much Ministers are paid is less than a million Naira. I don’t know of any defined allowance that the Minister has but I might be wrong.”