National Assembly resumes plenary today with scrutiny of President Bola Tinubu’s ₦58.47 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill, alongside proposed amendments to Nigeria’s electoral and constitutional frameworks.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said lawmakers in both chambers have begun detailed reviews of the revenue and expenditure estimates presented by the President on December 18, 2025. He described the budget as critical to economic growth, macroeconomic stability, job creation, and restoring Nigeria’s January–December budget cycle.
Bamidele linked improved funding prospects for the 2026 budget to recent fiscal reforms, particularly the 2025 Tax Reform Act, which he said has reduced the tax burden on low-income earners while expanding the fiscal base. He expressed confidence that the reforms would help shrink budget deficits over time.
Beyond the budget, the National Assembly is prioritising amendments to the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 general elections. The proposed Electoral Bill 2025 introduces over 20 reforms, including voting rights for inmates, early release of election funds to INEC, electronic voter identification, real-time transmission of results, and tougher sanctions for electoral offences.
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On constitutional review, Bamidele said public hearings and technical sessions have been concluded, with the final report expected before the end of the first quarter of 2026. He noted that approval by at least two-thirds of state assemblies would be required to effect amendments to the 1999 Constitution.
With just 16 months remaining in the lifespan of the 10th National Assembly, Bamidele said lawmakers would intensify reforms focused on governance, elections, and economic diversification.
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