The Senate has officially approved a three-month extension for the implementation of the capital component of the 2025 Appropriation Act. Initially set to expire on June 30, 2026, the validity period has now been extended to September 30, 2026, ensuring the continuous funding and completion of critical national projects.
The resolution followed a motion moved on Wednesday by Senate Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno (Borno North), following an executive session. The motion was seconded by Senator Victor Umeh (Anranbra Central), who emphasized that the extension is vital to sustaining ongoing infrastructural developments across the country.
While substantial funds have already been released to various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the Senate noted that a significant portion remains unutilized. This delay has been attributed to rigid procurement timelines, project implementation challenges, and other administrative bottlenecks.
Lawmakers warned that failing to extend the deadline would lead to:
The abandonment of strategic, near-complete capital projects.
The wastage of already committed public resources.
Disruptions to vital government interventions in economic growth, national security, and public welfare.
Funding gaps, as some of these projects may not be captured in subsequent budgets.
By extending the timeline, the Senate aims to facilitate the efficient utilization of released funds, boost overall budget performance, and enhance public service delivery.
Speaking during the debate, Senator Solomon Adeola (Ogun West), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, clarified that the extension strictly applies to the capital component of the budget.
What we have done this afternoon is to ensure the proper implementation of this budget. Yes, payment has commenced, but we still have a lot of outstanding. There is a need to extend this budget beyond June 30, 2026, to September 30, 2026. By then, we are hopeful that the outstanding 30 per cent will have been paid in full, while implementation of the components transferred to the 2026 budget can commence.
Senator Adeola.
To fast-track the decision, the Senate suspended its standing rules for immediate consideration, and the motion was officially adopted through a unanimous voice vote.
