SECURITY, INFRASTRUCTURE TAKE CENTRE STAGE AS TINUBU PRESENTS ₦54.46trn 2026 BUDGET
By Emeka Amaefula
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has presented a ₦54.46 trillion Appropriation Bill for the 2026 fiscal year to a joint sitting of the National Assembly, outlining a spending plan focused on strengthening national security, accelerating infrastructure development and sustaining economic reforms.
The President disclosed that the budget framework provides for a total capital expenditure of ₦26.08 trillion, while recurrent (non-debt) expenditure stands at ₦15.25 trillion. He stated that the estimates are based on a crude oil benchmark of US$64.85 per barrel, projected oil production of 1.84 million barrels per day, and an exchange rate assumption of ₦1,400 to the United States dollar for the 2026 fiscal year.
Tinubu explained that the budget is structured to consolidate ongoing reforms, stabilize the economy and promote sustainable growth across key sectors. He emphasized that security and infrastructure were deliberately prioritised as foundations for economic recovery, investment confidence and national development.
A sectoral breakdown of the proposal shows that defence and security received the highest allocation of ₦5.41 trillion, reflecting the administration’s resolve to confront insecurity and safeguard lives, property and national assets. Infrastructure followed closely with ₦3.56 trillion, targeting major investments in roads, rail, power and other critical public assets.
Education was allocated ₦3.52 trillion, while the health sector received ₦2.48 trillion, underscoring the government’s continued focus on human capital development, improved healthcare delivery and enhanced social outcomes.
President Tinubu described the proposal as the “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity,” expressing optimism that effective implementation would strengthen economic stability, drive inclusive growth and improve the living standards of Nigerians. He urged the National Assembly to give the budget proposal prompt and thorough consideration in the national interest.
——–Emeka Amaefula —–+234(0)8111813069—
