The House of Representatives is officially scheduled to begin floor debates on the 2026 Appropriation Bill this Thursday. The session marks the start of a rigorous legislative process aimed at reviewing the federal government’s proposed ₦58.18 trillion expenditure plan.
Deputy Speaker Dr. Benjamin Kalu, presiding over Tuesday’s plenary, urged lawmakers to conduct an exhaustive review of the document. He emphasized that the House is committed to prioritizing allocations that directly impact critical sectors of the economy to ensure maximum benefit for all Nigerians.
The 2026 budget proposal was first introduced to a joint session of the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu last Friday. Following early concerns raised by civil society organizations regarding the performance of the previous year’s budget, the House has pledged a more stringent oversight approach.
“I appeal to my colleagues to thoroughly study the Appropriation Bill and come prepared with observations and actionable inputs,” Dr. Kalu stated. “We must ensure this budget meets the urgent expectations of our citizens.”
The Deputy Speaker identified the 2026 budget as the centerpiece of an ambitious legislative agenda for the new year. Other key priorities highlighted for concurrent consideration include:
The 2026 Appropriation Bill: Ensuring fiscal discipline and sector-specific growth.
Electoral Act Amendment Bill: Strengthening the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.
Constitution Review Process: Addressing long-standing structural reforms.
Dr. Kalu assured the public that the House of Representatives will work in close synergy with the Senate to ensure a seamless and timely passage of the bill. This collaborative approach is intended to avoid legislative bottlenecks and provide a clear fiscal direction for the nation early in the year.
