FCT 2026 N2.2trn Appropriation Bill Passes Second Reading in Senate

The Senate on Wednesday during sitting passed the N2.2 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for second reading.

This followed the presentation of the general principles of the Appropriation Bill by the Leader of the Senate, Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele (APC–Ekiti).
Bamidele said the bill seeks to authorise the issuance of N2.2 trillion to finance the operations and developmental programmes of the FCT for the 2026 fiscal year.
He explained that the FCT occupies a unique position within the constitutional and administrative structure of the nation as the seat of government and a symbol of Nigeria’s unity, and therefore requires sustained investment in infrastructure, administration and social services.
According to him, such investments are necessary for the territory to effectively serve residents, businesses and numerous government institutions.
He said the bill provides the legal framework for the utilisation of funds accruing to the Federal Capital Territory Administration through its statutory revenue sources.
Bamidele noted that the funds would be appropriated to ensure the effective functioning of the FCT and the continued development of the capital city in line with the vision of making Abuja a modern, efficient and globally competitive city.
He said the bill authorises the withdrawal of N2.2 trillion from the FCT statutory revenue fund to finance both recurrent and capital expenditure for the 2026 fiscal year.
The Senate leader added that the bill also seeks to provide funding for infrastructure development, expansion of public utilities, transportation networks, health facilities, educational institutions and other critical projects aimed at improving the quality of life of residents.
He said the bill, while preserving legislative oversight and transparency, requires the submission of monthly and quarterly reports on budget implementation.
According to him, this will enable the National Assembly to effectively monitor performance and ensure value for money in the execution of projects and programmes.
Bamidele added that the budget is expected to consolidate ongoing development initiatives across the territory while also addressing emerging needs arising from rapid population growth, urban expansion and increasing pressure on public infrastructure.
“These investments are essential not only for the residents of the Federal Capital Territory but also for the millions of Nigerians and international visitors.”
He urged lawmakers to give the bill expedited consideration.
Lawmakers who spoke during the debate commended the strong emphasis of the Appropriation Bill on the capital component.
The senators noted that out of the N2.2 trillion budget, about N1.6 trillion is earmarked for capital projects, describing the allocation as a significant commitment to infrastructure development across the territory.
Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin (APC–Kano), also commended the budget proposal, particularly the N1.6 trillion allocation for capital projects in the FCT.
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his commitment to the development of Abuja, while also acknowledging the support of President Bola Tinubu.
Akpabio thereafter referred the bill to the Senate Committee on the Federal Capital Territory and Area Councils for further legislative work and directed it to report back to plenary within one week.