Senate Praises Capital-Driven Structure of Proposed FCT N2.2tn 2026 Budget

The Senate on Wednesday commended the strong emphasis on capital development in the proposed N2.2 trillion 2026 budget of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing it as a significant move toward boosting infrastructure growth in Abuja.
While debating the bill at plenary, lawmakers observed that of the total N2.

2 trillion proposed expenditure, about N1.6 trillion had been earmarked for capital projects, an indication that the budget is largely development-oriented.
Deputy president of the Senate Jibrin Barau noted that the structure of the budget deserved commendation because a large portion of the funds was directed toward infrastructure and development initiatives rather than recurrent expenditure.
He explained that about N165 billion had been allocated for personnel costs, while N378 billion was set aside for overhead expenditure, leaving the largest portion of the budget for capital development.
According to him, the arrangement reflects a deliberate effort to prioritise infrastructure and long-term development within the Federal Capital Territory.
“It is not a situation where you see a budget of N2.2 trillion with N1.5 trillion or N1.8 trillion going into personnel and overhead costs. The reverse is the case here. This budget is capital-oriented and development-driven, which is highly commendable,” the lawmaker said.
He also applauded the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for what he described as notable progress in the development of Abuja.
The Senate noted that several infrastructure projects had been executed across various parts of the territory, including road construction and other development programmes.
According to him, the visible spread of construction activities across the FCT demonstrates the minister’s commitment to transforming the nation’s capital.
He further praised President Bola Tinubu for providing leadership and oversight in the development of the territory, noting that the President, who has constitutional authority over the FCT, has been working closely with the minister to implement government policies.
“Abuja is one of the most important symbols of our sovereignty, and we must do everything possible to ensure its continued development,” he said.
Also speaking, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, representing Lagos East Senatorial District, expressed support for the bill and aligned himself with the views expressed by earlier speakers.
Abiru said that a budget which prioritises capital expenditure is vital for improving public services, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth.
He therefore urged his colleagues to support the passage of the bill.