The increase in search interest around unemployment in mid-March 2026 clearly shows our collective worry about the state of our economy. Many feel the pinch of high inflation, projected at 15.24% this March, particularly with rising food prices. This economic hardship, amplified by recent policy shifts, demands our urgent attention and action from our leaders.
Governors made promises during campaigns, like Ondo State's pledge to reduce unemployment through skills development. Even the Federal Government has plans for an unemployment benefits scheme and SME support. It is time we hold them accountable for these commitments. We need to create clear "promise vs. delivery" scorecards for each state.
Our states received significant FAAC allocations, with over N651 billion going to states in February 2026 alone. We must track how these trillions are spent. Citizens need to learn to distinguish between state and federal projects, as governors often claim federal projects as their achievements. Use tools like the Eyemark app for federal projects and check Surveyor-General offices for land status. Let's expose inflated project costs by calculating the real value per project; inflation drastically impacts construction.
Performance matters; we must name commissioners and scrutinize their ministries' delivery on job creation and economic development. Transparency in governance is non-negotiable. Participate in state budget consultations; the law mandates public meetings for citizen input. Many local government budgets remain hidden, a transparency issue we must challenge.
Contact your governor directly through official channels; these contacts are often available on state websites. Let us organize "governor report card" town halls and share our findings with receipts on social media. Remember, we vote them in, we can vote them out, but first, let us show them we are watching.