Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has faulted the federal government’s approval of ₦142 billion for bus terminals, calling it a sign of “poor judgment, lack of focus, and misplaced priorities.”

On Wednesday, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved ₦142.02 billion for the construction of ultra-modern bus terminals across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Transport Minister Sa’idu Alkali said the project would improve passenger safety, comfort, and economic activity.

But in a post on X, Obi compared the allocation with the 2024 budget for all federal teaching hospitals and psychiatric centres, which is less than ₦100 billion, describing the contrast as a “tragic irony.”

“The difference between success and failure in development is how scarce resources are prioritised,” he wrote. “That ₦142 billion is going to bus terminals instead of healthcare shows lack of competence and leadership.”

Obi lamented worsening healthcare in Nigeria, noting that over 20 million citizens are living with mental health issues, according to the World Health Organisation. “Why should bus terminals take precedence over life-saving facilities?” he asked.