Nigeria’s Senate has passed a bill extending the implementation of the capital component of the 2025 budget to June 30, 2026.
The upper chamber approved the amendment after a clause-by-clause consideration of the bill sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central).
The legislation amends the 2025 Appropriation Act, shifting the original deadline from March 31 to allow more time for the execution of capital projects.
Leading debate on the bill, Bamidele said the extension was necessary due to low implementation levels, despite the release of about 30 percent of allocated funds to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“This situation, if not urgently addressed, risks exacerbating the already troubling incidents of abandoned or partially executed projects across the country,” he said.
He added that many of the projects remain relevant, noting that only about 70 percent have been captured under the 2026 appropriation framework.
According to him, failure to extend the timeline could disrupt key national infrastructure and development initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Bamidele said the amendment would ensure continuity, improve budget performance and promote efficient use of released funds, while also strengthening fiscal discipline and preventing waste.
He also said the move would support economic activity by sustaining capital spending, preserving jobs and advancing development across critical sectors.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North) backed the bill, saying it aligns with the administration’s infrastructure agenda.
He said the extension would help ensure ongoing projects are completed and prevent a rise in abandoned projects, which he described as harmful to national progress.
Lawmakers subsequently approved the bill.
