Senate Urges NCDC to Prioritize Agriculture and Security in 2026 Budget, Approves N140 billion

Dayo Thomas

The Nigerian Senate has directed the North-Central Development Commission (NCDC) to prioritize investments in agriculture and security in its 2026 budget, emphasizing that the economic survival of the North-Central zone depends on urgent and targeted intervention. This directive was given by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on NCDC, Senator Titus Zam, when the commission’s management appeared before the committee to defend its budget estimates

The Senate committee identified agriculture and security as the two key pillars for the 2026 fiscal plan, urging the NCDC to focus on “impact-driven” projects rather than routine administrative spending. The committee emphasized that improved security would ensure safer trade routes and protected farmlands, while investments in agro-processing would increase the value of crops such as yams, grains, and cassava. The NCDC’s development mandate must address critical sectors of the economy, including agriculture, security, health, education, public infrastructure, and social services

The Senate committee has approved the NCDC’s total estimate of ₦140 billion for the 2026 financial year, subject to appropriation by the National Assembly. However, the committee expressed dissatisfaction with the implementation of the capital component of the 2025 budget, citing broader national implementation issues. The NCDC is expected to prioritize its expenditures in line with its mandate, ensuring that the people of the North-Central region benefit from the allocated resources