Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde Blames NLNG Dividend Delay for State Development Setbacks

NLNG Dividend Dispute The Nigerian government has withheld the ₦250 billion dividend that each state is supposed to receive from Nigeria LNG (NLNG). The funds are scheduled to be released only after the 2027 general elections, a delay that has drawn criticism from state leaders.

Governor Makinde’s Concerns During a consultative engagement on the 2027 budget held in Ibadan, Governor Seyi Makinde—also the presidential candidate for the Allied Peoples Movement—highlighted the impact of the withholding. He said the postponement has forced Oyo State to postpone several planned infrastructure projects and has undermined the state’s development agenda.

Impact on Oyo State Makinde noted that the delay has disrupted projects aimed at expanding the state’s economy and improving its infrastructure. With the funds held back, the state has had to re‑prioritise its budget and delay investments that were expected to create jobs and stimulate local growth.

Wider Subnational Consequences The governor argued that the withholding of NLNG dividends is not just a problem for Oyo but for all states. He warned that the postponement of funds undermines economic and social development across the federation, potentially affecting the implementation of national development plans.

Media Coverage and Next Steps Both the Daily Post and BusinessDay reported on Makinde’s remarks, underscoring the growing concern among state officials about the delay. While the federal government has not yet announced a revised timeline, state leaders are calling for a prompt release of the dividends to avoid further setbacks.