The Senate has commenced the second reading of a proposed N1.78 trillion statutory appropriation bill for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for the 2025 financial year. President Bola Tinubu formally submitted the budget proposal to the Senate, seeking its swift passage to facilitate development projects within the capital. The budget presentation aligns with Section 299 of the 1999 Constitution, empowering the President to present the FCT’s budget to the National Assembly.

President Tinubu emphasized that the proposed budget aims to boost key sectors, including health, social welfare, agriculture, and employment. He noted that 85% of the total allocation would be directed towards completing ongoing infrastructure and development projects, while the remaining 15% would fund new initiatives. Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, advocated for the suspension of Senate Standing Order 78(1) to expedite the bill's passage.

Senator Abdul Ningi acknowledged the ongoing transformation in the FCT, powered by Nyesom Wike, and credited Wike’s leadership. Ningi stated that Abuja would not have witnessed its current level of development without Wike's appointment, highlighting Wike’s performance and leadership. He also urged the National Assembly to deepen its oversight of the FCT’s revenue and expenditures.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged Wike’s impact and urged continued support for his efforts, emphasizing the need for collaboration between the executive and legislative branches. Further debate saw several senators commending the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, for his efforts in improving the territory.

According to Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, N150,353,906,168.00 is allocated for personnel costs, N343,779,677,448.00 for overheads, and N1,289,690,124,776.00 for capital projects. The budget is designed to ensure the completion of ongoing projects and includes a few new projects deemed necessary. Chairman of FCT Area Councils, Senator Jim Kuta, assured the Senate that concerns raised were being addressed by the administration. The bill has been referred to the Senate Committees on FCT for further legislative action and is expected to be reported back within four weeks.