May 08, (THEWILL) — The Senate has approved the N2.285 trillion Statutory Appropriation Bill for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for the 2026 fiscal year, with a strong emphasis on infrastructure development, as over N1.7 trillion was earmarked for capital expenditure across Abuja and its satellite towns.
The approval followed the adoption of the harmonised report of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on the FCT during plenary on Friday.
Presenting the report, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on FCT, Senator Austin Akobundu, disclosed that the budget proposal was drawn from a projected revenue of N2.385 trillion.
He explained that N165.7 billion was allocated for personnel costs, N378.2 billion for overheads, while N1.741 trillion—representing over 76 percent of the total budget—was dedicated to capital projects.
According to him, the budget aligns with constitutional provisions and follows extensive consultations with relevant officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), ensuring that it reflects both fiscal responsibility and developmental priorities.
Lawmakers across party lines commended the budget, describing it as balanced, development-focused, and capable of accelerating infrastructure renewal in the nation’s capital.
Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, praised the FCT Minister for presenting what he described as a well-structured financial plan capable of transforming Abuja into a more functional and modern capital city.
Similarly, Senator Abdul Ningi noted that the budget was well-packaged and balanced, adding that its implementation would significantly enhance the security of lives and property within the FCT.
In their contributions, Senators Tahir Monguno and Sani Musa supported the passage of the appropriation bill but urged that future budget presentations should include more detailed breakdowns of revenue sources to strengthen transparency and accountability in fiscal management.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also commended the FCT Minister for ongoing visible transformation projects across the territory.
He, however, aligned with calls for improved disclosure of revenue sources, stressing that transparency remains critical to public trust and effective governance.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
