President Bola Tinubu has sought the National Assembly’s approval to extend the implementation of the 2025 Appropriation Act until March 31, 2026. This initiative aims to resolve the ongoing issue of overlapping budget cycles.

The request was communicated in a letter dated December 18, 2025, which was presented on Friday during a special session of the House of Representatives by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

Tinubu noted that this new correspondence supersedes an earlier message sent on December 16, 2025, indicating that the extension is part of a broader set of fiscal reforms intended to enhance planning, execution, and accountability in public expenditure.

The President explained that the proposed adjustment would facilitate the release of at least 30 percent of capital allocations to ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), pointing out that delays in fund disbursement have consistently undermined budget performance.

He revealed that the proposal includes the repeal and reenactment of the 2024 and 2025 Appropriation Acts. Under this plan, the 2024 budget would be revised upwards to N43.56 trillion, while the 2025 budget would be adjusted to N48.32 trillion and extended to run until March 31, 2026.

Tinubu clarified that the amendments would also acknowledge items not previously recognized and ensure that budget implementation aligns with current fiscal realities and execution capabilities.

He urged lawmakers to consider and pass the bills swiftly in the interest of national development.

According to DAILY POST, since Tinubu took office in May 2023, the Federal Government has struggled with overlapping budgets due to delays in budget approval, revenue shortfalls, and slow capital fund releases.

Additionally, the President is anticipated to present the 2026 budget to the National Assembly on Friday.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is President Tinubu's request regarding the budget?

President Tinubu has requested the National Assembly to approve an extension of the 2025 Appropriation Act until March 31, 2026, to address issues of overlapping budget cycles.

What are the reasons behind the budget extension?

The extension is part of broader fiscal reforms aimed at improving planning, execution, and accountability in public spending, and to allow for the timely release of funds to MDAs.

What changes are proposed for the 2024 and 2025 budgets?

The 2024 budget is proposed to be revised to N43.56 trillion, while the 2025 budget is to be adjusted to N48.32 trillion and extended until March 31, 2026.