By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
Security has been tightened up at the National Assembly Complex as President Bola Tinubu prepares to present the 2026 Appropriation Bill to lawmakers today.
The President requested a noon slot for the presentation, and it is going be a joint session with both chambers.
The proposed N54.46 trillion budget is massive, with N34.33 trillion expected in retained revenue, according to the approved Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper.
Businesses near the complex are closed for the day, with banks and food vendors shutting shop on orders from management. Security is heavy, with DSS, police, and NSCDC personnel guarding all gates. Only essential staff, accredited officers, and some journalists are to be allowed in.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker, Abbas Tajudeen will co-preside. President Tinubu is expected around 3 p.m. This will be his third budget pitch since taking office in May 2023.
