Debt Instruments

According to Nigeria’s Debt Management Office (DMO), as of the second quarter of 2025, Nigeria's total public debt reached ₦152 trillion (US$190 billion), marking an increase of ₦3 trillion compared to the first quarter of the year. This debt is made up of ₦80.55 trillion (US$ 100.69 billion) in domestic obligations and ₦71.84 trillion (US$89.8 billion) in external liabilities, reflecting both federal and subnational borrowing. The growth in total debt, though significant in nominal terms, is contextualized by projections from the World Bank, which indicate that Nigeria’s debt-to-GDP ratio may decline below 40% by the end of 2025 if current trends in economic growth continue. This potential improvement in debt sustainability reflects an expectation that increased economic activity, improved revenue collection, and a moderate fiscal deficit could help stabilize the country’s debt relative to its GDP. Nevertheless, the sheer magnitude of the debt underscores the ongoing fiscal pressures facing Nigeria and raises questions about the effectiveness of current debt management strategies.

In response to these concerns, Ndegwa is demanding comprehensive accountability and transparency from the government. He is requesting detailed information on all secured levies, the specifics of the loans, the identity of the lenders, and how the funds have been utilized. By raising these issues, Ndegwa is not only questioning the legality of the government’s financial maneuvers but also highlighting a broader debate over whether Kenya's current economic state justifies financially risky strategies that could burden future generations. The scenario underscores the critical need for transparent and responsible financial management in the face of the country’s debt management challenges. Hence, by using private entities and failing to fully disclose the terms of these deals, the government appears to have bypassed key constitutional principles of public finance, accountability, and public participation. This approach burdens future generations with long-term debt and undermines effective oversight, raising serious questions about the integrity of the country's debt management practices.