The Senate of Nigeria has pledged to pass the N48.472 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill on March 31 after a brief adjournment for the Eid al-Fitr break.
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, gave the assurance shortly before lawmakers proceeded on the recess, explaining that Senate committees would continue working during the period to ensure that the budget process remains on schedule.
Akpabio said standing committees would maintain ongoing engagements, particularly the budget defence sessions and consultations with the Committee on Appropriations.
He said: “I hope the Leader will put pressure on the Committee on Appropriations to harmonise the report of the 2026 Appropriation by that date. This is so that when we resume, we can try our best to pass the budget without requiring further concurrence or harmonisation. Leadership must work together to ensure everything is in order. The House of Representatives Nigeria has already adjourned to conclude budget processes and will also meet on March 31. On that day, we hope to pass the national budget in tandem with the Senate.”
The Senate leadership indicated that the coordinated timeline with the House of Representatives of Nigeria would help both chambers finalise the appropriation bill on the same day.
Meanwhile, the Senate confirmed the appointment of Jamila Abubakar-Sadiq, a retired Rear Admiral, as National Commissioner representing the North East in the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Her confirmation followed the presentation of a report by the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, delivered by Simon Lalong, which recommended her nomination on the basis of her qualifications, experience, performance and integrity.
The Senate also approved the appointments of Usman Dakingari as a Non-Career Ambassador and Ismail Yusuf as Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
These confirmations were based on the report of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, presented by Bello Abubakar.
Following the approvals, Akpabio commended the Senate committees for what he described as their thorough screening of the nominees and expressed optimism that the new INEC National Commissioner would contribute positively to strengthening Nigeria’s electoral process.
He also praised Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing qualified women to key national positions.
“I congratulate the nominees and wish them fruitful endeavours in their respective assignments. I also thank Mr. President for selecting the right people for the right appointments. Congratulations to all,” he said.
What you should know
The N48.472 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill represents Nigeria’s federal spending plan for the fiscal year and is one of the most important legislative responsibilities of the National Assembly of Nigeria.
Both the Senate of Nigeria and the House of Representatives of Nigeria must pass the budget before it is transmitted to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assent.
Timely passage of the budget is considered important for maintaining fiscal planning, government operations and economic stability in the country.
