ABUJA – As millions of Nigerians grapple with rising inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and the daily struggle to afford food and housing, the Federal Government has quietly spent ₦38.2 billion ($144.7 million) over the past 22 years on the upkeep of former presidents, vice presidents, and their families.
The figures, drawn from budget documents and official records, reveal a system of entitlements that critics say is “lavish and insensitive” in a country where over 133 million citizens live in multidimensional poverty.
The Comfort of Yesterday’s Rulers
Each former president is entitled to a furnished five-bedroom mansion, three vehicles replaced every four years, armed police and DSS security aides for life, free medical treatment at home and abroad, and annual vacations at government expense. Former vice presidents enjoy similar perks, including a three-bedroom house, two vehicles, and medical coverage for their families.
Even in death, families of ex-leaders continue to benefit. Widows and children of deceased presidents and vice presidents receive allowances, educational support up to university level, and upkeep stipends.
The Numbers Behind the Privilege
- 2005: ₦140 million allocated.
- 2012: Peak spending at ₦3.185 billion under Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
- 2013–2025: Steady allocations of ₦2.3 billion annually.
- 2026: Another ₦2.3 billion proposed in the ₦58.47 trillion Appropriation Bill.
Beyond pensions and allowances, the government has also spent heavily on vehicles. Between 2016 and 2018, nearly ₦986 million was allocated for cars, while in 2017 alone, ₦432 million was budgeted for new vehicles for seven former presidents and four vice presidents.
Critics Speak Out
Civil society groups have condemned the spending as “a betrayal of public trust.” One activist remarked: “How do you justify ₦2.3 billion yearly for people who already have wealth, while ordinary Nigerians cannot afford basic healthcare or education?”
Another analyst noted: “This is not about respect for former leaders; it is about misplaced priorities. Nigeria is rewarding political elites while neglecting its citizens.”
Global Contrast
While Nigeria spends billions annually, other countries manage leaner packages:
- United States: Former presidents earn $205,700 annually, plus office support and Secret Service protection.
- South Africa: Ex-presidents retain their full salaries for life, about $188,000 annually.
- India: Ex-presidents receive $13,248 yearly, alongside modest perks.
- United Kingdom: Former prime ministers cost taxpayers about $515,000 annually in pensions and allowances.
Nigeria’s spending dwarfs these figures, raising questions about sustainability and fairness.
The Bigger Question
As the nation faces economic uncertainty, the debate intensifies: Should Nigeria continue to spend billions pampering former leaders while ordinary citizens struggle to survive?
The welfare package was introduced in 1999, modeled after the United States’ Former Presidents Act, which ensures dignity for ex-presidents. But while the U.S. spends about $3–$5 million yearly on all its former presidents combined, Nigeria’s spending has raised eyebrows given its economic challenges.
Critics argue that the entitlements are excessive in a country where millions live below the poverty line. Supporters counter that the benefits are necessary to protect former leaders and prevent them from falling into indignity or political vulnerability.
Looking Ahead
In the 2026 Appropriation Bill, the federal government has again proposed ₦2.3 billion for former leaders’ entitlements. As Nigeria grapples with economic realities, the question lingers: How much is too much to spend on the comfort of yesterday’s rulers?