National Assembly 2026 reforms target N58.47tn budget, electoral law, and governance to strengthen Nigeria’s economy and democracy.
The National Assembly has announced its legislative agenda for the remaining 16 months of the 10th Assembly, prioritising the 2026 Appropriation Bill, electoral reforms, and governance initiatives to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and economic competitiveness.
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Speaking as plenary resumed this week, Assembly leadership highlighted that the 48-month lifecycle of the 10th Assembly has left only 16 months to conclude critical legislative business.
Lawmakers stressed the need for swift, but well-considered actions to address national challenges amid an evolving global environment.
The 2026 Appropriation Bill, valued at N58.47 trillion, is the immediate focus.
Committees in both chambers are reviewing proposed revenues and expenditures, emphasising the consolidation of previous fiscal gains, macroeconomic stability, and the creation of jobs and rising incomes for Nigerians.
The Assembly noted that reforms to fiscal policy, including the 2025 Tax Reform Act, have eased the burden on low-income earners while placing greater responsibility on high-income earners, paving the way for improved budget implementation and a gradual reduction of deficits.
Electoral governance is another priority.
The Assembly has commenced a clause-by-clause review of the Electoral Act, 2022, with the 2025 Electoral Bill introducing more than 20 measures aimed at increasing transparency and credibility for the 2027 general elections. Key provisions include voting rights for prisoners, early release of election funds, electronic voter identification with QR codes, standardised party delegates, and stricter sanctions for electoral offences such as vote buying and result falsification.
Senators and representatives emphasised that these reforms are designed to enforce accountability and deter impunity, signalling a significant step toward credible, transparent elections.
Committees on the Independent National Electoral Commission in both chambers will submit reports to plenary for debate, voting, and transmission to the President.
The Assembly is also concluding the review of the 1999 Constitution.
Technical sessions and public hearings have been completed, with the Senate expected to receive and debate the report before forwarding it to the 36 State Houses of Assembly.
Constitutional amendments require two-thirds approval by the state legislatures, highlighting the collaborative nature of the process.
Assembly leadership stressed that legislative actions are guided by the mandate and trust of constituents, with reforms aimed at enhancing governance, security, economic resilience, and public welfare.
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The National Assembly pledged to act decisively to maintain Nigeria’s global competitiveness and deliver a people-centric governance framework.
