Nigeria Approves N1.5tn Army Budget for 2026 Fiscal Year

On Monday, the National Assembly approved a N1.5 trillion budget proposal for the Nigerian Army for the 2026 fiscal year. This decision was made during a joint budget defense session in Abuja, where the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, presented detailed expenditure plans.

Sen. Abdulaziz Yar Adua, chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, expressed satisfaction with the briefing but highlighted concerns regarding recurring delays in fund releases, which challenge the effectiveness of government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). The House Committee on Army, chaired by Aminu Balel, praised the dedication of the Chief of Army Staff and committed to advocating for timely disbursement of appropriated funds.

The N1.5 trillion allocation comes amid increasing demands for funding for Nigeria's security agencies, as the country continues to grapple with insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping. Security analysts warn that delays in fund release could undermine military operations and troop morale, stressing the importance of timely financial support for national security efforts.