Senate Advances N1.78 Trillion FCT Budget for 2025 Amid Heated Debate
The Nigerian Senate has passed the 2025 statutory appropriation bill for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) through its second reading, moving swiftly to advance the N1.78 trillion proposal barely hours after it was introduced.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted the budget in a formal letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which was read aloud during Tuesday’s plenary session. Tinubu urged lawmakers to fast-track the bill’s passage, highlighting its role in driving critical development projects within the capital.
“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 president’s letter read. “The passage of the budget would facilitate investment in health and social welfare, increase agricultural production, and improve job creation.”
The speed of the bill’s progression sparked procedural controversy. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved for the suspension of Standing Order 78(1), which typically bars a second reading on the same day a bill is introduced. His motion allowed the budget to skip the usual legislative delay — a move not without pushback.
Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) objected to the accelerated process, citing Senate Rules 77(3) and 77(4) and raising concerns that the bill had not been circulated to lawmakers before debate. Nevertheless, the chamber moved forward to deliberate on the bill’s general principles.
Bamidele, in his lead debate, emphasised the importance of timely budget approval, stating that the proposal authorises the withdrawal of N1.783 trillion from the FCT Administration’s statutory revenue fund for the 2025 fiscal year, spanning January 1 to December 31.
According to the budget breakdown, N150.35 billion is earmarked for personnel costs, N343.78 billion for overhead, and a significant N1.29 trillion for capital expenditure. Notably, 85 per cent of the capital allocation is dedicated to completing ongoing projects, while the remaining 15 per cent will support new initiatives.
“The aim is to deliver an effective, service-oriented administration that prioritises infrastructure and essential services in the FCT,” Bamidele stated.
The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on FCT, which has been mandated to review and present its report within one week.
