Taraba commissioner clarifies actual state debt figures
The Taraba State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Sarah Adi, has rejected claims that the state owes ₦1.2tn, clarifying the actual debt figures. She explained that public discussions about the state’s finances must distinguish between existing debt, approved but undrawn facilities, and proposed financing. Adi provided updated figures from the Debt Management Office and addressed concerns about various financing agreements. She emphasized the importance of transparency and responsible debt management under Governor Agbu Kefas.
What we know
- Sarah Adi stated that Taraba’s domestic debt was approximately ₦85.51bn as of December 31, 2025, compared to about ₦87.96bn before the current administration.
- The DMO’s March 2023 publication reflected Taraba’s debt position as of September 30, 2022.
- Taraba’s external debt was about $46.47m as of December 31, 2022, rising to $48.04m as of December 31, 2025.
- The ₦206.78bn in commercial bank facilities approved in 2023 should not be seen as current outstanding debt, and the proposed ₦350bn capital-market programme has not been received.
- A $268m financing agreement was signed with the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development on June 26, 2026, but funds have not yet been disbursed.
