Senate Demands Improved Service Delivery as Environment Ministry Presents ₦65.9bn 2026 Budget, Unveils Forest Guard Plan

By Inalegwu Osemi

The Senate Committee on Environment has urged the Ministry of Environment and its agencies to uphold high standards in service delivery as the ministry presented its proposed ₦65.9 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year before the committee.
Chairman of the committee, Yunus Akintunde, gave the directive during the budget defence session, calling on the minister and heads of agencies under the ministry to remain steadfast in promoting effective environmental management and protection.

He underscored the need for accountability and strong performance to ensure that allocated resources translate into visible improvements in environmental sustainability nationwide.
While presenting the proposal, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, outlined key programmes aimed at reinforcing environmental protection and security. He revealed that the ministry has commenced plans to establish a forest guard system to strengthen surveillance and security across Nigeria’s forest reserves. According to him, the initiative is intended to combat illegal activities including deforestation, banditry, and other environmental crimes, while safeguarding the country’s natural resources.
Hon. Lawal emphasized the necessity of adequate funding to ensure the effective implementation of the ministry’s policies and programmes. He stated that sufficient financial backing is essential for tackling environmental challenges, enhancing waste management systems, encouraging afforestation efforts, and sustaining a clean and healthy environment.
The minister further explained that the proposed ₦65.9 billion allocation for 2026 would fund both ongoing projects and new initiatives focused on environmental protection, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
Members of the committee pledged their continued backing for the ministry but reiterated the importance of transparency, efficiency, and measurable outcomes in the use of public funds.
The budget defence is part of the National Assembly’s ongoing scrutiny of proposals submitted by ministries, departments, and agencies for the 2026 fiscal year.