“We’re still paying China for failed projects” – Isaac Fayose slams Buhari-era railway, refinery loans

Popular businessman and social commentator Isaac Fayose has criticised the state of some government-funded infrastructure projects, alleging that Nigerians are still repaying loans for projects that have failed to deliver lasting value.

In a viral video circulating on social media, Fayose questioned the outcome of the railway project financed through a Chinese loan during the administration of late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to him, despite the huge amount borrowed for the project, Nigerians are still servicing the debt while the railway infrastructure has allegedly deteriorated.

Fayose also referenced Nigeria’s refineries, claiming that billions were borrowed for their rehabilitation, yet they remain non-functional despite the country continuing to repay the loans.

“Late President Buhari borrowed money from China for the railway line from Nigeria to Niger about eight or nine years ago. We are still paying for the loan, but the rail tracks are gone now.

“Same thing we did with our refineries. We borrowed a lot of money that Nigerians are still paying up till today, but our refineries are still down. This is what happens when we elect incompetent people because Rotimi Amaechi was in charge of railways back then. We have faults, and our government also has faults.” he stated.

The comments have further fueled conversations about government borrowing, infrastructure development and accountability in Nigeria.

Watch the video below…

“Late President Buhari borrowed money from China for railway line from Nigeria to Niger 8/9 years ago, we are still paying for the loan but the rail tracks are gone now. Same thing we did with our refineries, we borrowed a lot of money that Nigerians are still paying up till… pic.twitter.com/zZcq3nuuIb

— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) July 1, 2026