Borno records lowest domestic debt in North-East Nigeria at ₦22.3 billion in Q2 2025

Key Takeaways

  • The six North-Eastern states collectively owe around ₦450 billion in domestic debt as of Q2 2025.
  • Borno State maintains the lowest debt in the region at ₦22.3 billion, showing signs of controlled borrowing amid post-conflict rebuilding.
  • Bauchi State has the highest domestic debt burden of ₦143.6 billion, accounting for about 31% of the region’s total.
  • The top three states, Bauchi, Taraba and Gombe, collectively account for more than two-thirds of the zone’s total subnational debt stock.

As of Q2 2025, North-Eastern Nigeria’s domestic debt profile reveals wide disparities across the six states. Borno State, at ₦22.3 billion, stands out as the most fiscally restrained, managing its borrowing levels despite ongoing recovery and security challenges. In contrast, Bauchi State dominates the region’s debt landscape with ₦143.6 billion, followed by Taraba (₦93.9 billion) and Gombe (₦76.9 billion). The collective regional debt stock of ₦450.1 billion reflects a mix of cautious borrowing and investment-driven fiscal expansion as states continue to navigate economic rebuilding and public service delivery priorities.

Source:

Debt Management Office

Period:

Q2 2025
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