Political interference with the allocation of ecological funds is inhibiting the country’s efforts to tackle flooding, according to environmental experts.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, The Head of Grants and Partnership and Climate Change Thematic Lead, Women Environmental Programme, Ukange Ichivirbee, said the politicisation of fund allocation had undermined the country’s flood management efforts.
He noted, “The ecological fund is the major, if not the only, financial mechanism earmarked by the Nigerian government to tackle environmental and climate change-related issues across all tiers of government in Nigeria. However, ecological funds are often susceptible to embezzlement, misappropriation, and diversion.
“The worst of it all, political interference influences the allocation of ecological funds, with resources sometimes directed towards politically connected states or projects rather than areas with the greatest need. This politicisation of fund allocation undermines the effectiveness and fairness of flood management efforts in Nigeria.”
He added that there was often a lack of transparency in the allocation and utilisation of ecological funds, particularly by state governments.
According to Ichivirbee, the decision-making processes regarding the ecological funds lack openness, and information about fund disbursement, project selection, and implementation progress was not readily available to the public.
He added, “This opacity is facilitating corruption and undermining public trust. Addressing these loopholes requires concerted efforts to strengthen governance, enhance transparency and accountability, and involve the public in the monitoring and evaluation of ecological funds in Nigeria.
