Senate Approves N2.285 Trillion for Federal Capital Territory Development
On Thursday, the Nigerian Senate approved the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Statutory Appropriation Bill for 2026, which earmarks a total expenditure of N2.285 trillion aimed at the development and management of the nation’s capital.
This decision followed the presentation and evaluation of harmonization reports from both the Senate and House Committees on the FCT during a plenary session. The report was presented by Senator Austin Akobundu (Abia Central), Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on the FCT, on behalf of the Committee Chairman, Senator Ibrahim Bomai (Yobe South).
In his presentation, Akobundu revealed that the committees recommended a total budget of N2.285 trillion, drawn from a projected revenue of N2.385 trillion for the FCT in 2026.
The proposed budget allocates NOK 165.7 billion for personnel costs, NOK 378.2 billion for overhead expenses, and a substantial NOK 1.741 trillion designated for capital expenditure. The allocation underscores a commitment to infrastructure development and public service improvement, with 76.19 percent of the total budget focused on capital projects, while recurrent expenditures account for 23.8 percent.
Akobundu emphasized that the appropriation process adhered to constitutional requirements and was the result of thorough discussions between parliamentary committees and officials from the Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA). He noted that the committee engaged with ministers and other stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the budget’s needs.
The budget’s passage is particularly timely, given the increasing demand for enhanced infrastructure, transportation, healthcare, security, and essential amenities, as Abuja and its surrounding areas continue to experience rapid population growth.
During the debate, lawmakers commended the budget’s balanced and development-oriented fiscal framework. Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Balau expressed his approval of the spending plan, highlighting its potential to revitalize the FCT’s infrastructure. He stated that this budget reflects a commitment to ensuring that the FCT remains a place of admiration.
Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) echoed similar sentiments, describing the budget as well-structured and responsive to concerns raised by parliament members during oversight activities with the FCTA. He assured that the appropriation aligns with the Senate Committee on FCT’s findings from the previous year.
The Senate subsequently advanced the bill to its third reading, paving the way for it to be submitted for presidential assent.
