***Focus on Agriculture, Solid Minerals, Infrastructure, and Security
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has proposed an additional N4.53 trillion allocation to the 2025 Appropriation Bill, increasing the total budget size from N49.7 trillion to N54.2 trillion.
The President communicated this adjustment in separate letters to both chambers of the National Assembly. It was read during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday.
The increase, he explained, was due to additional revenues generated by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) (N1.4 trillion), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) (N1.2 trillion), and other Government-Owned Enterprises (GOEs) (N1.8 trillion).
Ruling on the matter, Akpabio referred the letter to the Senate Committee on Appropriations and directed them to expedite the necessary adjustments to the budget, which is currently under review. He assured that the budget would be passed before the end of February to ensure smooth government operations.
In his letter, Tinubu proposed N4.53 trillion to key sectors to drive economic diversification, infrastructure development, and national security.
Solid Minerals Sector was allocated N1 trillion” to unlock Nigeria’s vast mineral resources, reduce reliance on oil, and create alternative revenue streams.”
Bank of Agriculture Recapitalisation got N1.5 trillion to enhance food security, empower smallholder farmers, and promote agro-industrial value chains while Bank of Industry Recapitalisation got N500 billion to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), boost local manufacturing, and reduce import dependence.
Infrastructure Development got N1.5 trillion while Irrigation Development (N380 billion) to support year-round farming and ensure water security.
For transportation Infrastructure, N700 billion was allocated, Including N300 billion for roads and N400 billion for urban rail networks. Border Communities Infrastructure got N50 Billion) to enhance security and foster economic development.
On security, Military Barracks Accommodation was allocated N250 billion) to improve housing for security personnel, while Military Aviation was proposed N120 Billion) to modernise Nigeria’s military air capabilities.
President Tinubu justified the allocations to the military, stating that no progress can be made without security.
He emphasised that investing in the armed forces was a moral and economic necessity as national security remains the foundation of economic stability and development.
He indicated that Investments in solid minerals will expand Nigeria’s revenue base and reduce reliance on oil.
“Recapitalization of BoA and BoI will boost agriculture and industrial production, enhancing exports and creating jobs.
“Improved irrigation systems will support year-round farming and food production.
“Road and rail projects will reduce transportation costs and enhance connectivity.
“Border communities and military infrastructure investments will bolster national security and living conditions for security personnel.
Tinubu emphasized that national security is a moral imperative and a foundation for economic progress.
“The proposed investments in military barracks, aviation, and border infrastructure aim to enhance the readiness and welfare of Nigeria’s armed forces.
“No infrastructure, no innovation, and no progress can be sustained without security. Investing in our military affirms our resolve to end terrorism and safeguard our citizens,” the President stated.
The President urged the National Assembly to integrate these proposals into the 2025 budget, highlighting their alignment with Nigeria’s economic growth, diversification, and security priorities.
With this proposed increase, the Tinubu administration seeks to balance fiscal responsibility with strategic investments that will drive long-term national development.