ADC Slams Tinubu’s $516m Loan Request for Sokoto–Badagry Highway

On Thursday, April 23, 2026, in Nigeria, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Legislators’ Forum reacted to President Bola Tinubu’s request sent to the Senate for approval of a $516.33 million external loan meant to support parts of the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway project, arguing that the move raises concerns about borrowing practices, repayment plans, and national debt levels.

The lawmakers said the request is part of a growing pattern of heavy reliance on foreign loans for major government projects. They expressed concern that the country already spends a large share of its income on debt payments, which they believe puts pressure on public finances and could affect long-term economic stability.

The group, made up of lawmakers from different regions, said infrastructure development is important but questioned whether the government has shown a clear plan for repaying the loan. They also raised concerns about how such borrowing decisions are made and whether proper financial details, project costs, and economic benefits have been fully made public.

They added that continued borrowing without strong domestic revenue growth could place more strain on the economy and increase risks linked to debt.
The lawmakers also noted the timing of the request and said citizens may question whether such financial decisions are linked only to development plans or also to political interests ahead of future elections.

They called on the National Assembly to carefully review the proposal and avoid approving it without full financial disclosure and a clear repayment structure. They also urged the government to focus more on boosting local production, improving revenue generation, creating jobs, and strengthening internal economic capacity instead of depending heavily on external loans.

President Tinubu had earlier asked the Senate to approve the loan to fund parts of the 1,000-kilometre highway that will pass through several states including Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos, connecting Illela to Badagry. The request was presented during plenary by Senate leadership and is expected to be reviewed by lawmakers.