The Federal Government has spent at least N38.188 billion on the upkeep of former presidents, vice presidents and their families over the last 22 years, findings by Vanguard have shown.
Based on official exchange rates across the period, the welfare package translates to about $144.7 million.
Allocations for the entitlements of former presidents, heads of state, vice presidents and chiefs of general staff rose sharply from N140 million in 2005 to N2.3 billion from 2013, a figure that remained constant through 2025.
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The highest allocation was recorded in 2012, when the Goodluck Jonathan administration budgeted N3.185 billion, while the lowest was N24 million in 2008. The 2007 figure was not officially disclosed but estimated at N102 million.
In addition, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) spent N432.19 million in 2017 on vehicles for seven former presidents/heads of state and four former vice presidents. Between 2016 and 2018, another N986.19 million was allocated for car purchases.
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For 2026, the Federal Government has proposed N2.3 billion for the payment of pensions, allowances and other statutory benefits to former leaders, as contained in the N58.47 trillion Appropriation Bill. The provision applies to both civilian and military former leaders.
Beneficiaries include former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, as well as ex-military leaders Ibrahim Babangida, Yakubu Gowon and Abdulsalami Abubakar. Former vice presidents listed include Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo and Yemi Osinbajo, alongside Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (retd.).
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Families of deceased former leaders and deputies are also constitutionally entitled to benefits. Beyond these packages, former leaders who are members of the Council of State receive N500,000 per sitting, with meetings held at least twice yearly.
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