Senate Calls N2.9bn NCDC Allocation Inadequate for 2026

The Senate has criticized the N2.9 billion monthly allocation to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), labeling it as grossly inadequate when compared to the N140 billion budget earmarked for 2026. Titu Zam, the chairman of the Senate committee, stated that the monthly allocation would not cover even half of the projected budget for the year.

He described the N2.9 billion as a temporary package that falls short of the N140 billion appropriated budget. The committee expressed the need for the allocation to be improved to ensure that the NCDC can effectively manage its projects.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of addressing agricultural challenges and insecurity in the North Central region, with an emphasis on supporting security forces and state governments in mitigating these issues.