Senate passes N2.285tn FCT budget, earmarks 76% for capital projects

The Nigerian Senate has passed the 2026 Statutory Appropriation Bill for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), authorizing a total expenditure of N2.285 trillion. This significant financial package is earmarked for the comprehensive development and administration of Nigeria's capital city. The approval follows a thorough review and harmonization of reports from joint committees of both the Senate and the House of Representatives on the FCT. Senator Austin Akobundu, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on the FCT, presented the report, outlining a budget derived from a projected revenue of N2.385 trillion.

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The committees met with the minister and other relevant officials of the FCTA and deliberated extensively on the subject matter.

A key feature of this budget is its strong emphasis on capital projects, which account for a substantial 76.19% of the total allocation, amounting to N1.741 trillion. Recurrent expenditure, covering personnel and overhead costs, makes up the remaining 23.8%. This fiscal structure clearly signals a strategic focus on infrastructure development and enhancing public service delivery within the FCT. The budget proposal includes N165.7 billion for personnel costs and N378.2 billion for overheads, underscoring the commitment to both administrative efficiency and tangible development.

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Mr President the budget is top notch. You know, I am the only one in the history of the legislature in this country that had the opportunity to serve as chairman appropriation committee in the House and in the Senate. So when I see a good budget, I know it’s a good budget. It is a budget that’s top-notch.

Lawmakers contributing to the debate lauded the budget's framework, describing it as both balanced and development-oriented. The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, specifically commended the spending plan, highlighting its commitment to infrastructural renewal. He noted that allocating such a large portion to capital projects demonstrates a strong determination to improve the FCT, making it a model for admiration. This budget passage comes at a time when demands for improved infrastructure, transportation, healthcare, security, and basic amenities in Abuja and its satellite towns are escalating, driven by rapid population growth. The appropriation process, according to Senator Akobundu, adhered strictly to constitutional provisions and followed extensive deliberations with FCT officials, including the minister.

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A budget that you have a total of N2.2tn and out of this, N1.7tn is going for capital. It shows his willingness and determination to continue to show FCT to the admiration of all.