Senate Approves Proposed N140bn NCDC 2026 Budget

The Senate Committee on the North Central Development Commission has approved the commission’s proposed N140 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year.

The approval followed a budget defence session at the National Assembly in Abuja, where the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the commission, Cyril Yiltsen Tsenyil, presented a breakdown of the expenditure plan.

In a statement issued by the Director of Corporate Services, James Uloko, Tsenyil disclosed that about 86 per cent of the proposed allocation is dedicated to capital projects, while the balance will fund personnel emoluments and overhead expenses.

He said the 2026 budget is designed to consolidate the commission’s operational framework and drive strategic programmes targeted at sustainable development across the North Central region.

Chairman of the committee, Senator Titus Zam, described the significant capital allocation as a positive signal for the region’s growth prospects, provided the funds are efficiently utilised. He stated that the committee had thoroughly examined the proposal and would maintain strict oversight to ensure investments are channelled into priority areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, empowerment initiatives and economic development.

Other lawmakers who contributed during the session acknowledged the commission’s development-oriented approach but urged it to factor in prevailing security concerns in parts of the region. They emphasised the need for focused interventions to assist displaced persons and mitigate disruptions to livelihoods and local economies.

The committee further underscored the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement to foster community support and maximise the impact of the commission’s interventions.