The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has assured that the Nigerian Senate will pass the N48.472 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill on March 31 after a brief adjournment for the Sallah break. Speaking before the adjournment, Akpabio said Senate standing committees would continue working during the recess, particularly on ongoing budget defence sessions and coordinate with the Committee on Appropriations.
He said: "I hope the Leader will put pressure on the Committee on Appropriations to harmonise the report of the 2026 Appropriation by that date. This is so that when we resume, we can try our best to pass the budget without requiring further concurrence or harmonisation. Leadership must work together to ensure everything is in order. The House of Representatives of Nigeria has already adjourned to conclude budget processes and will also meet on March 31. On that day, we hope to pass the national budget in tandem with the Senate.”
Meanwhile, the Senate confirmed the nomination of retired Rear Admiral Jamila Abubakar-Sadiq as National Commissioner representing the North-East at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Her confirmation followed the presentation of a report by the Committee on Electoral Matters, chaired by Senator Simon Lalong, which recommended her appointment based on her qualifications, experience, performance, and integrity.
The Senate also confirmed the appointments of Usman Dakingari as Non-Career Ambassador and Ismail Yusuf as Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). The confirmations followed the adoption of a report by the Committee on Foreign Affairs, presented by Senator Bello Abubakar.
Following the confirmations, Akpabio commended the committees for what he described as a diligent screening process and expressed confidence that the new INEC commissioner would contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s electoral system.
He also praised Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing qualified women to key positions.
He said: “I congratulate the nominees and wish them fruitful endeavours in their respective assignments. I also thank Mr. President for selecting the right people for the right appointments. Congratulations to all.”
