State governments across Nigeria are currently holding N264.12 billion in unspent matching grants from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), despite facing significant challenges in public schools. This situation raises concerns as many schools struggle with dilapidated infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, and a lack of essential learning materials.

According to the 2025 UBEC Annual Report, these funds were allocated to State Universal Basic Education Boards but have remained untouched in state accounts as of July 21, 2025. Among the states, Benue has the highest unspent balance, amounting to N19.18 billion. This is followed by Imo with N14.12 billion and Osun with N14.02 billion. The continued accumulation of these unspent funds highlights a growing disconnect between financial allocations and the pressing needs of the education sector.

In a related development, the Federal Government has proposed a N70,000 monthly transport allowance for public servants, which could potentially cost N465.7 billion over a six-month period if all eligible employees are included. This initiative, set to commence in November, has been met with resistance from the Trade Union Congress (TUC), which is advocating for an immediate salary increase and the fulfillment of outstanding agreements with health workers.

Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has postponed its presidential campaign flag-off in Sokoto from October 31 to November 4. This decision comes amid allegations that the Sokoto State Government instructed hotels to deny accommodation to the party's delegates, a claim that the state government has denied. The ADC has also reported attacks on some of its supporters during a recent rally in the state capital.

In financial news, the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) reported that gross revenue shared among the three tiers of government reached N31.46 trillion in the first nine months of 2026. This figure surpasses the total revenue collected in four of the previous five years, indicating a significant increase compared to the N28.74 trillion generated in the entirety of 2024. However, experts caution that while revenue growth has been substantial, it remains volatile, with mineral revenue falling short of budget expectations.

Finally, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to make a crucial decision regarding the exclusion of several governorship candidates, including former Communications Minister Isa Pantami and Ladi Adebutu. The commission has cited the failure of the affected political parties to submit their membership registers on time as the reason for these exclusions. Political parties have contested these omissions, urging INEC to rectify the situation ahead of the February 6, 2027 governorship elections.