President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to formally present the proposed 2026 national budget to the Nigerian legislature later this week. This key event in the nation's fiscal calendar will see the President address a joint session of the National Assembly.
Schedule and Official Communication
The presentation is scheduled for Friday, December 19, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. A formal notification regarding the President's appearance is expected to be read on the floor of the House of Representatives on Thursday, December 18. This development follows an official letter dated December 17, 2025.
The letter was signed by Admiral Essien Eyo Essien, the Secretary of Human Resources and Staff Development, who acted on behalf of the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana. Copies of this communication were also distributed to the deputy clerk and various heads of departments within the National Assembly.
Security and Access Protocols for Budget Day
In preparation for the high-profile event, strict security and access measures have been outlined. According to the directives, all accredited personnel must be at their designated duty posts by 11:00 a.m. on Friday. Access to the National Assembly complex will be restricted after this time.
The communication strongly advised non-accredited individuals to stay away from the premises entirely. Furthermore, specific parking instructions have been issued for staff members to ensure order and security.
- Most staff are required to park their vehicles at designated areas at the Annex or the new car park near the NASS Gate.
- Exemptions from this rule are granted only to the Clerk, Deputy Clerk, and the Clerks of the House and Senate along with their immediate deputies.
Significance of the Annual Budget Presentation
The presentation of the Appropriation Bill is a cornerstone of Nigeria's democratic and governance processes. It marks the formal transmission of the Federal Government's fiscal proposals and spending plans for the coming year to the legislature.
Following the presentation by President Tinubu in his capacity as President and Commander-in-Chief, the National Assembly will commence its constitutional duty of scrutinizing the document. This process involves detailed review, debate, and potential amendments before the budget is passed into law.
The eventual approval of the 2026 budget will set the financial framework for government operations, projects, and services that will impact all sectors of the Nigerian economy and the lives of its citizens.
