Nigeria’s lawmakers have endorsed the Army’s 2026 budget of N1.50 trillion, pledging to ensure the funds are released promptly to bolster the nation’s fight against insecurity.
The announcement came after a closed-door joint budget defence session with Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Monday. Senate Committee on Army Chairman, Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC, Katsina Central), said the committee had carefully reviewed the proposals and was satisfied with the presentation.
“We convened a joint session of the Senate and House Committees on Army to review the 2026 budget. After hearing from the Chief of Army Staff, members expressed their satisfaction with the proposals”, Yar’Adua stated. He noted, however, that delays in releasing appropriated funds continue to be a major challenge for all government agencies.
“But I want to assure the Chief of Army Staff that we will work closely with him to ensure the success of these initiatives. The army is vital to national security, and we are committed to supporting it fully”, added Yar’Adua, a retired army officer.
House of Representatives Committee on Army Chairman, Aminu Balele (APC, Katsina), also commended the Chief of Army Staff and his officers for their dedication to combating insurgency and safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“As we conclude the 2026 budget defence, I want to thank my Senate counterpart, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, and colleagues for collaborating with us on this critical national assignment. I also commend the Chief of Army Staff and his team for their unwavering commitment to service”, Balele said.
He also reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to advocating for the timely release of budgeted funds, ensuring the army can execute its constitutional duties effectively.
About the Author
