Senator Patrick Ndubueze, representing Imo North Senatorial District, has disclosed that the Senate Committee on Appropriations has fixed March 17, 2026, for the final consideration and passage of the N58.47 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill.
Ndubueze, a member of the Committee, after a crucial meeting today, Friday, said the decision followed a series of deliberations and consultations aimed at ensuring a thorough, transparent and timely review of the budget proposal presented to the
National Assembly.
According to him, the committee has approved a detailed timetable for the defence of budget estimates by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), scheduled to run from February 2 to February 13, 2026.
He further revealed that a public hearing on the 2026 budget proposal has been slated for Monday, February 9, 2026, to allow inputs from relevant stakeholders and the general public.
“As part of our oversight responsibilities, the committee will also hold an interactive session with members of the Federal Government’s economic management team on March 5, 2026,”
Ndubueze listed those expected at the session to include the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu.
The senator noted that the proposed 2026 budget stands at N58.472 trillion, anchored on an oil price benchmark of $64.85 per barrel, daily oil production of 1.84 million barrels, and an exchange rate of N1,400 to the dollar.
Ndubueze added that the House of Representatives has already passed the Appropriation Bill for second reading, following its presentation in late 2025, describing the development as a positive signal for smooth legislative processing.
He assured Nigerians that the Senate Committee on Appropriations, chaired by Senator Solomon Adeola, remains committed to a rigorous review process that prioritises fiscal discipline, national development and timely passage of the budget.
