National Assembly approves N1.504tr army budget, tackles delays

By Henry Umoru & Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja

Abuja — The National Assembly has expressed full support for the proposed N1.504 trillion 2026 budget of the Nigerian Army, pledging legislative backing and decisive action to tackle recurring 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 ₦1,504,251,069,722 proposal presented by 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 were satisfied with the Army’s budget projections following extensive deliberations.

“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 stated.

He identified delays in the release of appropriated funds as a systemic challenge affecting Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including the military, and assured the Army of legislative collaboration to ensure smoother budget implementation.

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

Similarly, Chairman of the House Committee on Army, Hon. Aminu Balele, commended the Chief of Army Staff, officers, and soldiers for their patriotism and commitment to combating insurgency and safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

Balele pledged sustained legislative oversight and engagement with relevant authorities to guarantee timely release of 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 the two chambers, thanking his Senate counterpart and acknowledging the support of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas in advancing the Army’s funding priorities.

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