By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s proposed 2026 federal budget has triggered public debate after revelations that a government ministry earmarked more than 500 million naira for items including make-up services, hairdressing and grinding machines.
Details from the budget proposal, currently under scrutiny at the National Assembly, show that the allocation was listed under non-capital and empowerment-related expenditures within the ministry’s spending plan. The items, which include payments for make-up artists, hairdressers and the procurement of grinding machines, have drawn sharp criticism amid the country’s ongoing economic challenges.
Nigeria is grappling with rising inflation, a weakening currency and widespread hardship following recent economic reforms. Against this backdrop, critics argue that such allocations reflect misplaced priorities at a time when many citizens are struggling to afford basic necessities.
Civil society groups and opposition figures have questioned the justification for the spending, calling on lawmakers to demand clarity from the ministry involved and to ensure stricter oversight of public funds.
“This raises serious concerns about fiscal responsibility,” said one budget analyst, who noted that discretionary spending must be carefully reviewed in light of the government’s repeated calls for austerity and sacrifice.
Supporters of the allocation, however, argue that some of the items fall under skills acquisition and empowerment programmes aimed at supporting small-scale livelihoods, particularly for women and youth. They insist that the context and implementation details should be examined before drawing conclusions.
The controversy adds to broader scrutiny of Nigeria’s 2026 budget, as lawmakers continue debates on spending priorities, revenue projections and deficit financing. The budget is expected to undergo further revisions before final approval.
