Gombe’s Local Governments Receive Nigeria’s Second‑Lowest Revenue Allocation in Nine Months

Gombe’s Allocation Falls to Second‑Lowest in Nigeria

From January to September 2026, the 11 local government areas (LGAs) of Gombe State were granted a total of N40.69 billion in gross statutory revenue allocation. The figure is the second‑lowest among all local governments in the country, with only Bayelsa State receiving a smaller amount of N31.86 billion. Gombe’s allocation places it 35th in the national ranking, ahead of Bayelsa but behind states such as Kano, Borno and Bauchi.

Kano State topped the list with N149.The figure reached 70 billion, whereas Borno State held the fifth position with N92.The amount stood at 47 billion. Bauchi was allocated N78.Adamawa received N68, while the previous figure was 27 billion.58 billion, Yobe N59.64 billion and Taraba N59.32 billion. Gombe’s N40.69 billion is the lowest figure among the six states in the North‑East geopolitical zone.

The disparity raises questions about the criteria used to determine each state’s share of revenue and whether population, the number of LGAs or the revenue‑sharing formula influence the allocations.

Background

The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) is responsible for distributing revenue allocations to local governments. The committee divides the revenue that accrues to the Federation Account among the federal, state and local governments according to a set formula. The formula takes into account factors such as population, the number of local government areas and the fiscal needs of each council.

In the nine‑month period from January to September 2026, the combined gross statutory allocations for the six North‑East states—Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe—totaled N398.97 billion. Borno’s share of N92.47 billion was more than double Gombe’s N40.69 billion, while Bauchi’s allocation of N78.27 billion was also considerably higher.

The rankings alone do not explain why the allocations differ or whether the amounts received by individual councils are adequate for their responsibilities.

Why it Matters

The allocation of N40.69 billion to Gombe’s LGAs means that each council receives a smaller share of federal revenue than many of its counterparts. This could affect the ability of local governments to fund infrastructure projects, social services and other development initiatives. The low ranking may also reflect broader fiscal challenges faced by the state and its local administrations.

The figure is significant for policymakers and stakeholders who monitor fiscal decentralisation and the effectiveness of revenue‑sharing mechanisms. It highlights the need for a closer examination of the allocation formula and its impact on local governance.

What Happens Next

The article does not provide details on any forthcoming adjustments or policy responses. No specific dates or pending decisions are mentioned in the available information.