Presidency vs Makinde: Verbal Spat over N250bn NLNG Dividend

A heated exchange between the Presidency and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has erupted over the distribution of N250 billion in NLNG dividends, as reported by several Nigerian newspapers. According to Vanguard News, the Presidency has denied Makinde’s claim that the federal government is withholding the dividend windfall, stating it as false and illogical. Vanguard News reports that the Presidency reiterated that the NLNG operates as a commercial entity and its dividends are distributed based on the company’s performance and shareholding structure, not on a per-state basis. However, Governor Makinde has demanded answers, asserting that the federal government should clarify its stance on the matter. Punch Newspapers also covered the story, stating that the Presidency refutes Makinde’s claim and has called it false and illogical. The dispute highlights the ongoing debate over the management and distribution of Nigeria’s natural resource revenues.