The Senate approved the 2026 Statutory Appropriation Bill for the Federal Capital Territory, allocating N2.285 trillion for the year. The vote followed the presentation of a harmonised report by Senator Austin Akobundu (Abia Central), who spoke on behalf of Senate Committee Chairman Senator Ibrahim Bomai (Yobe South). The budget is based on a projected revenue of N2.385 trillion, with N1.741 trillion designated for capital expenditure, N378.2 billion for overhead costs, and N165.7 billion for personnel costs. This structure allocates 76.19% of the total to capital projects, leaving 23.8% for recurrent spending. Akobundu stated the process adhered to constitutional requirements and involved consultations with the Federal Capital Territory Administration. He confirmed the committees held extensive discussions with the FCT minister and other officials. Deputy President of the Senate Senator Jibrin Barau described the budget as "top notch," praising the minister's commitment to infrastructure. Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) called the budget well-structured and responsive to prior legislative feedback. The bill passed its third reading and will now proceed to the president for assent.
Senator Jibrin Barau claims to be the only person in Nigeria's legislative history to chair appropriation committees in both chambers, yet this distinction is not verified in the source. His personal endorsement of the FCT minister's work shifts focus from legislative scrutiny to political praise. The budget's heavy capital tilt may not address immediate public needs in Abuja's expanding satellite towns. Lawmakers' acclaim does not substitute for measurable outcomes in service delivery.
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