Questions Emerge Over Federal Government Spending Priorities Amid Economic Hardship
The Federal Government has increased the monthly imprest allowance for ministers to ₦700,000, a move that is already generating public debate as millions of Nigerian workers continue to earn the newly approved ₦70,000 minimum wage.
The increase was contained in the 2026 Annual General Imprest Warrant issued by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), which outlines approved operational expenses for top government officials.
What Is Imprest?
Imprest refers to funds provided to public officials for routine office-related expenses such as stationery, refreshments, minor administrative costs, and other day-to-day operational needs.
Under the revised structure, ministers will now receive ₦700,000 monthly, up from the previous ₦300,000 allocation.
This represents an increase of approximately 133 percent.
Other senior government officials also benefited from the review, with adjustments made across various categories of public service leadership.
Government Explains Increase
Speaking on the development, the spokesperson of the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Bawa Mokwa, confirmed that the allowance was increased and attributed the decision to prevailing economic realities.
According to him, the adjustment was necessary to reflect rising operational costs and inflationary pressures affecting government institutions.
The clarification follows reports suggesting that the Federal Government had reduced imprest allocations across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
However, official records indicate that the allowances were instead reviewed upward.
Minimum Wage Debate Intensifies
The development comes at a time when many Nigerians are facing severe economic challenges, including rising food prices, transportation costs, housing expenses, and energy bills.
While ministers will receive ₦700,000 monthly for office-related expenses, the country’s minimum wage remains ₦70,000 per month for many workers.
Labour unions have repeatedly argued that the current wage is insufficient to meet the basic needs of an average Nigerian family under present economic conditions.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has continued to advocate for a substantial review of workers’ salaries, citing inflation and the declining purchasing power of the naira.
Public Reactions Expected
The contrast between increased operational allowances for government officials and the financial struggles faced by ordinary workers is likely to fuel discussions on governance, public spending, and economic priorities.
Analysts say the issue highlights the broader challenge of balancing government administrative costs with policies aimed at improving citizens’ welfare and living standards.
As the debate continues, many Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether broader economic relief measures accompany such adjustments within government institutions.
This report is based on publicly available government information and official statements.
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