Lawmakers Approve ₦1.5 Trillion For Nigerian Army, Promise Improved Fund Release
THE National Assembly’s Joint Committees on Army have approved the ₦1.504 trillion 2026 budget proposal for the Nigerian Army, expressing confidence in the spending plan and pledging to work toward the prompt release of appropriated funds.
The approval followed a joint budget defence session in Abuja attended by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, and members of both chambers of parliament.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, said lawmakers were satisfied with the Army’s presentation and overall financial proposal. He noted, however, that delays in the release of funds remain a recurring challenge affecting Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“We had a joint session of the Senate and House Committees on Army on the 2026 budget, and after listening to the presentation of the Chief of Army Staff, all members expressed satisfaction,” Yar’Adua said. “The major issue is the delay in the release of funds, which is affecting all MDAs.”
He assured the Army leadership of the committee’s commitment to collaboration, describing the institution as critical to national stability and security.
Also speaking, Chairman of the House Committee on Army, Aminu Balele, commended the Army’s leadership and personnel for their role in combating insurgency and safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity. He pledged continued legislative support and rigorous oversight to ensure the Army receives the financial backing required to carry out its constitutional responsibilities.
Balele further acknowledged the support of House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, affirming the House’s readiness to push for timely disbursement of funds once the budget is fully enacted.
