As Nigeria faces economic hardship and inflation, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Yemi Cardoso and his four deputies have reportedly purchased bulletproof SUVs valued at over N10 billion.
According to Daily Nigerian, the CBN officials have been spending extravagantly, including acquiring ultra-modern armored vehicles and raising their allowances, even while many Nigerians endure hunger and economic difficulties.
Reports indicate that Governor Cardoso recently acquired six armored Lexus LX 600 2023 models for himself and the four deputy governors—Emem Usoro, Philip Ikeazor, Bala Bello, and Sani Abdullahi—at a total cost exceeding N10 billion.
Cardoso received two SUVs for his personal use in Lagos and Abuja, while each of the other four deputies received one.
Additionally, sources reveal that these officials already possessed armored vehicles in their convoys prior to this new acquisition.
It is also reported that about 20 Toyota Camry cars, each costing around N85 million, were bought for CBN management and board members.
Furthermore, reports claim that the CBN governor and his deputies have significantly raised their annual housing allowances to approximately N1 billion, despite living in official residences in Maitama, Abuja.
Moreover, they have allegedly upgraded their international travel privileges from business class to first class, with the cost of a first-class ticket from Abuja to New York currently around $15,000.
Their foreign travel allowances have also reportedly increased, with each official receiving $7,000 per night during international trips.
