BY: NEWS DESK, JUNE 22, 2026/ 10:21PM

The Borno State Government has debunked reports alleging that N4 billion was spent on rail construction projects in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere Local Government Area without any work done on ground.

In a statement signed by the commissioner for information and internal security, Prof. Usman A. Tar, the government said no rail project was awarded, funded, or executed during the 2025 fiscal year.

The clarification follows public reports questioning a budget entry that indicated 100 percent completion of a rail line project.

Following an internal review with the ministry of budget, ministry of transport and energy, and other procurement stakeholders, the government stated categorically that no executive council approval was sought or obtained for any rail project, no budget clearance was requested, no contract was awarded, and no funds were released for any such project within the 2025 fiscal year.

For the avoidance of doubt, the government explained that projects of this nature must follow established due process, including formal proposal, executive council approval, budget clearance, contract award, and subsequent release of funds.

According to Prof. Tar, none of these procedures were initiated or concluded in relation to any rail line project during the period under reference.

The government admitted that the inclusion of a rail project entry in the 2025 budget implementation report, showing 100 percent completion, was an administrative error that does not reflect the true position as the said project was neither executed nor paid for.

Prof. Tar noted that relevant stakeholders have already been engaged and steps are being taken to correct the records accordingly and to forestall future occurrence of this administrative lapse.

The Borno State Government reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, due process, and accountability in the management of public resources.

It also appreciated the vigilance of citizens, civil society organisations, and stakeholders in promoting good governance and public accountability.