SENATE EXTENDS 2025 CAPITAL BUDGET IMPLEMENTATION TO DECEMBER 31

The Senate has approved another extension of the implementation period for the capital component of the 2025 Appropriation Act, moving the deadline from September 30, 2026, to December 31, 2026.

The Upper Chamber approved the extension on Tuesday after considering the bill clause by clause.

The bill, sponsored by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), seeks to amend the 2025 Appropriation Act to allow the Federal Government additional time to implement capital projects captured in the budget.

Leading the debate on the general principles of the bill, Bamidele said the extension was necessary and pragmatic, noting that the implementation of capital projects under the 2025 budget had yet to reach optimal levels despite the release of funds to Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government.

He said the extension would provide the relevant agencies with additional time to complete ongoing capital projects and ensure that allocated funds are effectively utilised.

Bamidele formally presented the bill, titled: “A Bill for an Act to Amend the Appropriations (Repeal & Enactment) Act 2025 to Extend the Implementation of the Capital Aspect of the Appropriations (Repeal & Enactment) Act 2025 from 30th September, 2026 to 31st December, 2026 and for Other Related Matters, 2026 (SB. 1067).”

Following consideration of its provisions, the Senate passed the bill, extending the implementation period of the 2025 capital budget component by three months.

The latest extension is aimed at allowing government agencies more time to execute capital projects and utilise funds appropriated for them before the revised deadline.