2026: N’Assembly backs N1.504trn Army budget, vows to tackle funding delays

By Henry Umoru & Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja

The National Assembly has thrown its full weight behind the proposed N1.504 trillion 2026 budget of the Nigerian Army, pledging not only legislative backing but also decisive action to address the persistent delays in fund releases that have hampered military operations.

At a joint budget defence session in Abuja, the Senate and House Committees on Army endorsed the N1,504,251,069,722 proposal presented by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, describing it as critical to strengthening national security and sustaining ongoing operations across the country.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, said members of both chambers expressed satisfaction with the Army’s projections after extensive deliberations.

“We had a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives 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 stated.

He, however, identified delayed release of appropriated funds as a systemic challenge affecting Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including the military.

“The major issue is the delay in the release of funds, which is affecting all other MDAs,” he noted, assuring the Army leadership of legislative collaboration to ensure smoother implementation of the budget.

“The Army is so critical in our life as a nation, and we will support you with everything that you need,” he added.

On his part, Chairman of the House Committee on Army, Hon. Aminu Balele, commended the COAS, officers and soldiers for their “patriotism and commitment” in combating insurgency and safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

Balele pledged sustained legislative oversight and pressure on relevant authorities to guarantee timely cash backing of appropriated funds.

“We know the issues involved with budgets, and we are ready to push and will continue to push for the timely release of funds so that you can deliver on your mandates,” he said.

He also appreciated the collaboration between both chambers, thanking his Senate counterpart and acknowledging the support of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas in advancing the Army’s funding priorities.

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