Senate Passes N1.78 Trillion 2025 FCT Budget Through Second Reading Amid Debate and Presidential Urgency

 

In a significant move aimed at accelerating development within Nigeria's capital city, the Nigerian Senate has passed the sum of N1.78 trillion as the statutory appropriation bill for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for the 2025 fiscal year through its second reading. This development marks an important step toward the actualisation of several key infrastructure and welfare projects within Abuja and surrounding areas.

The process was set in motion following the receipt of a formal communication from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who submitted the 2025 FCT budget proposal to the National Assembly. The President’s letter, addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, called for the Senate’s urgent consideration and speedy legislative approval of the proposal in order to keep pace with the government’s development goals for the territory.

In his letter, President Tinubu stated clearly:

“In compliance with section 299 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I hereby lay before the National Assembly the 2025 FCT budget proposal for consideration. The passage of the budget would facilitate investment in health and social welfare, increase agricultural production, and improve job creation. I urge the National Assembly to give this budget the urgent attention it deserves, in the interest of accelerating development within the FCT.”

This presidential appeal highlights the significance the administration places on development within the capital, and the crucial role the budget plays in achieving key socio-economic objectives.

Same-Day First and Second Reading: A Rare Legislative Shortcut

In what observers might call an unusual or even rare legislative occurrence, the Senate conducted both the first and second readings of the budget on the same day during plenary. This was made possible by a motion from Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who requested a suspension of Senate Standing Order 78(1). According to the usual rules, a bill introduced in the Senate cannot undergo a second reading on the same day it is first presented. However, Bamidele's motion allowed the Senate to fast-track the process, presumably in line with President Tinubu’s appeal for urgent attention.

This move, however, was not without controversy. Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central, strongly opposed the move. Citing Senate Rules 77(3) and 77(4), Senator Ningi argued that the budget document had not been distributed or circulated to senators ahead of the debate. This, he said, undermined transparency and proper legislative scrutiny. Despite his resistance and the procedural concerns raised, the Senate proceeded with the debate on the general principles of the appropriation bill.

What’s in the Budget? A Deep Dive into the Allocation

Breaking down the proposed N1.78 trillion budget, here’s how the funds are expected to be allocated:

• Personnel Costs: N150.35 billion

• Overhead Costs: N343.78 billion

• Capital Expenditure: N1.29 trillion

During the debate, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele emphasised that the bill would grant authorisation for the withdrawal of N1.783 trillion from the FCT Administration’s statutory revenue fund. This funding will cover the period between January 1 and December 31, 2025.

He provided further insight into how the capital expenditure would be spent. According to Bamidele, 85 percent of the capital budget will be directed toward the completion of ongoing projects, while the remaining 15 percent is earmarked for new projects and developments.

“The aim is to deliver an effective, service-oriented administration that prioritises infrastructure and essential services in the FCT,” Bamidele said.

This statement reinforces the administration’s commitment to tangible development—especially in key areas such as roads, healthcare facilities, public infrastructure, education, and security services within the Federal Capital Territory.

Next Steps: Committee Review Under Tight Deadline

Following its passage through second reading, the appropriation bill has now been forwarded to the Senate Committee on the FCT. The committee has been tasked with a quick turnaround—they are expected to conduct a detailed review and submit their report within one week. This timeline aligns with the urgency expressed by the President and echoed by several senators during plenary.

Conclusion: Fast-Tracking Development in the Nation’s Capital

The swift movement of the 2025 FCT budget through the legislative process—despite some procedural pushback—reflects both the pressure on lawmakers to support the Federal Government’s development agenda and the urgency attached to transforming Abuja into a more functional and modern capital city.

With over N1.29 trillion earmarked for capital projects alone, this budget could become a game changer for the territory if implemented effectively. All eyes are now on the Senate Committee on FCT as Nigerians await their final report and the eventual passage of the full appropriation bill.