The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of Nigeria’s economy, particularly with regards to foreign debt borrowing. The group expressed concern over the government’s seemingly contradictory statements on revenue targets and borrowing plans.

According to HURIWA, President Tinubu declared on September 2, 2025, that Nigeria had met its revenue target for the year ahead of schedule and would no longer rely on borrowing to fund its budget. However, just two days later, the Federal Government announced plans to increase borrowing, sparking concerns about the government’s credibility and commitment to transparency.

HURIWA questioned the justification for the government’s borrowing plans, given the reported surge in revenue. The group’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, expressed sadness over the contradiction in the government’s handling of external borrowing, stating that it has made it impossible for citizens to know when the government is telling the truth.

The group also highlighted the country’s growing debt profile, citing a recent report that projected Nigeria’s debt to reach N187.79 trillion in 2025. HURIWA lamented that the current government’s borrowing pattern has dragged Nigeria into heavy indebtedness, crippling the economy and exacerbating issues such as naira depreciation and rising borrowing costs.

Key Concerns:

– Lack of transparency: HURIWA demands greater transparency in the government’s borrowing plans and revenue management.
– Contradictory statements: The group questions the government’s seemingly contradictory statements on revenue targets and borrowing plans.
– Growing debt profile: Nigeria’s debt is projected to reach N187.79 trillion in 2025, sparking concerns about debt sustainability.

Call to Action:

HURIWA urges the Federal Government to prioritize transparency and accountability in its economic management, particularly with regards to foreign debt borrowing. The group demands that the government provides clear justification for its borrowing plans and ensures that citizens are informed about the country’s economic situation.