The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has criticised the Federal Government over its decision to earmark ₦22.15 billion for the construction and renovation of palaces in the 2026 budget, saying the funds should instead be used to address the economic hardship facing millions of Nigerians.
The opposition coalition described the allocation as a misplaced priority at a time when many citizens are struggling with rising living costs, unemployment and inflation.
Speaking on the development, CUPP National Secretary, Peter Ameh, argued that government spending should focus on projects and programmes that directly improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
According to him, investments in areas such as job creation, agriculture, transportation, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and critical infrastructure would have a greater impact on the country’s economy.
Ameh pointed to the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) introduced during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan as an example of a social intervention initiative that supported transportation, agriculture, businesses and grassroots economic activities.
“Such an approach would ultimately benefit everyone, including our traditional rulers, who would surely prefer to see their subjects empowered and their communities thriving,” he said.
The CUPP secretary maintained that allocating billions of naira to palace projects while many Nigerians continue to face economic challenges reflects a misalignment of government priorities.
He urged the Federal Government to review its spending plans and channel more resources into programmes that would ease the burden on citizens and stimulate economic growth.
Ameh also referenced Section 14 of the 1999 Constitution, which states that the security and welfare of the people should remain the primary responsibility of government.
According to him, public funds should be directed toward policies and projects that improve the welfare of Nigerians, especially during a period of economic hardship.
The coalition called on the government to align the 2026 budget with the immediate needs of citizens and prioritise initiatives that promote sustainable development and improve living standards across the country.
