By RismadarVoice,March 11, 2026
The Senate on Wednesday approved the second reading of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) 2026 Appropriation Bill, authorising the proposed N2.2 trillion budget for the territory.
The bill, presented on the floor by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC–Ekiti Central), seeks approval for funds to finance the operations and development programmes of the FCT for the 2026 fiscal year.
According to the breakdown of the proposal, N165.8 billion is earmarked for personnel costs, N378.2 billion for overhead expenditure, while the bulk of the budget—N1.657 trillion is allocated for capital projects.
Leading the debate, Bamidele underscored Abuja’s strategic role as Nigeria’s capital, noting that the budget is designed to strengthen infrastructure, social services and public utilities across the territory.
He said the funds would support the development of health facilities, educational institutions, transportation networks and other critical infrastructure aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and visitors.
The Senate Leader also noted that the bill provides for monthly and quarterly reporting to the National Assembly to ensure transparency, accountability and value for money in project implementation.
In his remarks, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (APC–Kano North) commended the allocation of more than N1.6 trillion for capital projects, describing it as a strong commitment to infrastructure development in the capital city.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also praised President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for what he described as their commitment to the development of Abuja.
Following deliberations, the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on the Federal Capital Territory and Area Councils for further legislative scrutiny.
The committee is expected to report back to plenary within one week for further consideration of the budget proposal.
