Twenty-one wives of local government chairmen in Adamawa State have traveled to Istanbul, Turkey, for a week-long leadership training programme, a move that has stirred public anger among workers and retirees.
The delegation departed earlier this week and is expected to spend seven days in Istanbul.
According to organisers, the programme is designed to prepare the women to “assist and advise” their husbands in the running of local government affairs.
Suleiman Toungo, Chairman of Toungo Local Government Area and State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), confirmed on Saturday, September 27, 2025, that the initiative mirrors a similar overseas course attended by local government chairmen two months ago.
He argued that exposing spouses to leadership training would help strengthen grassroots governance.
But the decision has sparked widespread criticism. Workers and pensioners in Yola said the trip was insensitive, coming at a time when many have gone months without salaries or pensions.
“This is a financial scandal,” said Abubakar Shehu, a 75-year-old retiree from Yola North. “At a time when workers and pensioners are suffering, such wasteful spending should be investigated by the EFCC.”
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Some chairmen also expressed unease. One from northern Adamawa, who requested anonymity, said he was surprised when his wife’s name appeared on the list of participants after a visa was processed in her name without his consent.
Civil society groups have joined in the criticism, demanding clarification on the cost of the programme and its source of funding. Neither ALGON nor the state government has released figures.
While supporters argue the training could empower women to take on more community-focused roles, the controversy highlights broader concerns about governance priorities in Adamawa at a time of economic hardship and calls for accountability.