Headline

Total Parental Guidance Orphanage: Home Built on God’s Inspiration

Published

3 years ago

October 29, 2022

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

In 2008, when Mr. Olusegun Ogungbe obeyed a divine call to float an orphanage home, many thought he was threading on an unknown ground, but little did anyone realise that when God ordains, he makes available the resources to put to work His divine assignment. And so it is with TOTAL PARENTAL GUIDANCE Orphanage Home, located at Oluyole Estate in Ibadan, where children of all ages are given the best of attention and care to give them a standard pedestal to compete favourably in the professional world.

With over 20 children of different age categories occupying the double bungalow of the home, standard has remained the watchword in addition to fear of God with attendant vocational superiority.

When The Boss visited the facility, the neatness of the entire environment was the first attraction. The home is maintained to squeaking cleanliness with passionate caregivers going about their duties with zeal.

Established 14 years ago, the Home, founded by Ogungbe, is run on a daily basis by someone you can call the administrator or matron, and you will not be wrong, Mrs. Grace Akpan, a down to earth person, who had held sway in the facility since November 2009. She is the only mother-figure the children have known, and they adore her to high heavens as a result of what they described as her unequalled kindness, devotion to their welfare and desire to see that the best happen to them.

It is not by accident that the Home, only recently produced its first graduate, Opeyemi, who was one of the first sets of children admitted into the home, from the prestigious Redeemers University. Another, by divine arrangement, has just been admitted by the Kings University in Ode Omu, and the rest of the children are graciously attended the best of schools in Ibadan metropolis, striving to become the best destiny has preserved for them.

The Boss chose to tell the story of the Home through the voices of the inmates. Here are excerpts:

We Have Reached Full Capacity, and Needs Expansion – Ogungbe, Founder, Total Parentage Guidance Orphanage.

Segun Ogungbe, Founder, Total Parental Guidance Orphanage

The Boss: Can you go down memory lane, and recapture how this Home to be

Ogungbe: We are living in a building my dad and mum left when they died in 1999 and 2001 respectively. As the only child of my parents, I inherited the building. Initially, I tried commercialising the property because in this area, everything is mostly commercial. I was contemplating leasing it out as block of offices, but God intervened. I had gone for a church service in December 2002 in London when a certain preacher was ministering on supporting the orphans. That was when I heard a voice, ‘my son that’s what I want you to do’. When I looked around to know where the voice was going from, I saw no one. The voice came again. I obeyed, and asked God to direct me on whatever steps to take. With that, it was easy to locate contacts and the ministry to register with. We later got a solicitor to draft the contract, register with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and then derived the capital to begin with.

It is pertinent to note that the preparation for this took about five years; between January 2003 and December 2008. The Home opened for operations on December 1, 2008, which has remained our Founder’s Day. It was approved by the Ministry of Welfare, which we carried along in every step, for us to conduct our activities from that day. The ministry provided assistance in advising on infrastructure, ratio of caregivers and every other requirements. We refurbished the whole place. And with our desire to make everything perfect, consulted other homes like Heritage Homes already in existence for guidance. We raised 18 months funds to help with operations before more funds would come in.

Ogungbe with some secondary school students of the Home

As we were working towards that, we realised we had to build a kitchen. There were originally twin buildings, all completed as far back as August 1977. So we needed to have extra structures. I knew I couldn’t do half measures, that it is either I do it, or I don’t. With the help of God, I arranged all the furniture. We got the first matron, who left after sometime, but the present matron, Mrs. Grace Akpan has been with us ever since (November 2009).

The challenges we encountered were issues of transportation and schools the children will go. Then we had about seven children. Opeyemi, who just graduated from Redeemers University was one them. There is also another girl that has just been admitted to UNILAG; and the first set of twins, who are 13 years old at the moment. Other challenges had to do with wage bill and operations. But we have learnt as we trudged along.

The Boss: Running an orphanage home of this magnitude comes with tangible challenges. Can you itemise them?

One of the sleeping quarters for the children

Ogungbe: Some of these challenges lie with determining the health status of the children as they grow up. However, before any child is admitted here, we carry out some medical tests such as HIV and other major ailments. We also do background check on all our children to determine the status of their parents. If they are dead, what is the circumstance surrounding their death. This helps us to know how to care more for the child.

Here, because we are not just running a business as most people do, getting the best of staff becomes a challenge as we have to go for the very best. Ours is a cause to better humanity, and we can’t afford to get it wrong. We look out for those who have the heart and passion for the job and those sent by God to do it.

The Boss: Apart from the divine inspiration which prompted your setting up the home, are there any other reason behind this enterprise

Ogungbe: It’s important to note that my mother use to have a daycare centre around here. I have had a soft spot for children ever since, and I don’t like to see children suffering. More so, when God picks you for a role, there is no saying no, or going back. Originally I resisted the call, and was busy praying for breakthroughs in other areas, but God told me “look, I have already given you a job”, and I have to advise myself. This orphanage is divinely inspired, and that is why God is helping us.

A cross section of the children with the matron, Mrs Akpan

But the major challenge is funding. We have used our God-given wisdom to raised funds. God has intervened divinely in many ways and on many occasions. I must not fail to mention a particular God-sent benefactor, who consistently paid money to assist in running the home. He knows himself, and wouldn’t want his name mentioned.

But how did it all begin? At a point sometime in 2007, God instructed me to go to Nigeria. At this time I had no money, and so I resisted. But God insisted, and gave me directions. Long and short of the matter, of the names I was directed to pen down, one called me just as the time of my travelling got closer. I came, and he signed a cheque for me. Shortly after, another cheque came in from another benefactor, and that was how it continued, and lo and behold before the day of the trip, I had about three thousand Pounds and N1.5 million from donors including Pastor Femi Faseru. So, I came to Nigeria and did so much on the orphanage to put it in shape.

In the same vein, kindhearted Nigerians have been donating items and money to sustain the home. We are even privileged to have donors who gave us either full or half scholarship for schools.

Mr Ogungbe with primary and nursery pupils

THE WAY FORWARD

As at the moment, we are at full capacity with over 20 children, with all getting the best of attention and attending the best of schools. This is where we need the much need assistance to continue to give out the best of tutelage we have been known for since 2008. Now, the foundation of this house is meant for a two story building, we need to expand the building to create more sleeping areas, library and recreational facilities. This will help us give the much needed humanitarian service. We need two, two storey buildings here. As the children are growing older, much spaces are required even as new ones are joining. So we really need to expand.

We also need an inverter to complement generator services in order to ensure that power remains constant for the children to excel in their academics. We need more computers for the children to enhance their vocational abilities. Our children are really excelling in their work, and this has shown in some of the exhibitions we have had, as well as training programmes conducted. With additional support, they can go places. We are blessed with an easy to find location already, and so we appeal for kind Nigerians to help the expansion of this great humanity-based institution

Who are you looking at to help with this expansion you talked about

I know Nigerians are very kind people and don’t like children suffering. Specifically, we are calling on captains of industries such as the effervescent Michael Adenuga Jnr., Mr Femi Otedola, Alhaji Aliko Dangote and many others.

The dinning area

Is this Institution registered and recognised

Sure, we are registered with the Association of Orphanage Homes, which our dear matron, Mrs Akpan, is the treasurer for the state. This association is saddled with the responsibility of inspecting orphanages. Most times, they have visited us on impromptu basis, and never found us wanting in any area, be it cleanliness, availability or otherwise.

In the last years, what can you say are the strengths of the Home in terms behavioural pattern of the children, academic performance etc

We are committed to excellence in every area. In academics, the documents are there to prove their abilities. Here, apart from the schools they go, we provide extra moral lessons at home. There is also pastoral care for them. We undertake complete welfare of every area of their lives, and to the glory of God, standardization has remained the watchword of the Home. In fact, we submit report to the Ministry of Welfare on a monthly basis. We are all round, and with the little help we seek, we are sure to reach the zenith..

Do you have any plan of establishing a school so as to make the children school within

Yes, the plan is already drafted, waiting for execution. All we need are people who share in our dreams to key into the project and they will be glad they did.

Taiye and Kehinde Yisau, the first set twins in the home, now 13 years old

We Do Everything to Ensure Total Safety of Our Children – Mrs Grace Akpan, Home Matron

Here at Total Parental Guidance Orphanage Homes, we give total attention and care to vulnerable children ranching from shelter, food, education, tutelage and pastoral care

What is the idea behind the establishment of this home

The home is a product of vision given to the founder by God himself. And that is why the home is quite different from every other home. It is not an NGO, which most people open to raise money. This home is in total obedience to God by Mr. Segun Ogungbe. He started by faith, and God took over. I have been here for 13 years. I joined just before the one year anniversary of the home, and God has been faithful

My qualifications are not educational, but passion and talent. I am a total mother, who has singlehandedly raised five children since the death of my husband. To have raised five well behaved children alone is enough qualification. I discovered that I have this penchant for loving and caring for children, and I have utilised them to the later. So it was not difficult for those who interviewed me to see these qualities, and offered me the matron job, and 13 years down the lane, God has used me and the Founder to turn around a lot things here including providing this particular office I have now, which among other things, have served as a place to pray to God.

One thing becomes obvious immediately one walks into this place, and that is how clean the environment is. Tell us more

I don’t compromise with squalor and dirtiness. I am by nature a very clean person, and anyone that knows me can testify. This is one of my very qualities, and I am reciprocating it here. I go around everywhere to ensure cleanliness. This place is used as a reference point for neatness in the whole of Oyo State.

I met six children when I joined, but by the grace of God, we have 22 children now. When I joined, all our children were attending public schools, but through God’s grace and my effort, we gained places for them in private schools.

Mrs Akpan with members of staff

How do you derive funding for their education

God has been helping us. I appeal to our benefactors, and ask for scholarship, and God is helping us. The Founder has been putting major efforts, and I know that I have to support with own drive effort. Schools like Adedunke Group of Schools at Ososanmi give our children 100 per cent scholarship. There is another one called Great Kiddies Porch, which gives us fifty per cent scholarship. There is also New Realms and Brainchild Care, which also give our children 100 per cent scholarship

What are your challenges in the process of doing your job here

Yes, there are challenges, but the major one is more of spiritual. Sometimes, you don’t know what has taken the lives of the parents of some children, and you are standing in the gap to rescue the child. We fight more of spiritual battle than physical. I do sometimes dry fasting to see that our children are safe. On the physical basis, money is the thing we need. With money, we can do everything we want. I call therefore all well meaning Nigerians to come to our aid. Someone just gave us a huge deep freezer, another at PG changed our chairs. I believe God will touch the hearts of those he has put substance in their hands to elevate this home to assist us.

Can you comment on their attitudinal and academic performances

With all sense of humility, I will say that our children are performing optimally in both academics and morals. We have just graduated one child from the university, and another just got in. We are training them in the way of the Lord.

What categories of children can be admitted here

This is a home run on Christian background and principles. But we admit anyone so long as you agree to the fact that we will train in the Christian way, take them to church and generally admonish them in the way of Christ. We have Muslims here too, but every tutelage is Christian-oriented.

How do you scout for your children

Most of our children come in while they were babies, but we take as much as the facility can handle, and that is the more reason we need assistance to expand.

The Home's school bus

At Total Homes, We Don’t Leave Anything to Chance – Jumoke Olawale, Reporting Officer

So let me know your experience as a reporting officer for this home

I have been working here for past four years. And being a reporting officer has given me the privilege to meet the vulnerable children. In my experience so far, I have had a closer relationship with the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs and more. So, this gives me the opportunity to know the Association of Orphanages, and OVC operators in Nigeria.

What else does your job entails

Yeah. Apart from giving the reports for the home, I give report to the Ministry of Women Affairs, as I said earlier. I give report to the Association of Orphanages and Home Operators. I learnt a lot through this, as it allows me to move with vulnerable children, new people, visitors, donors, and others.

Another sleeping area

What has it been like in your four years working for Total as regards management of the children, their upbringing and why somebody should choose this home instead of another one?

I use to think that it’s only children that have parents that have the benefits of going to school, and the cool things in life. But working in this orphanage has made me have a rethink. Having seen the way we are training the children, it really shows that it’s not only children with parents that have privilege of going to school, or have a good, solid education.

What do you do here that is not prevalent and not very common out there that make your children outstanding?

The way we bring them up; it is quite different from others.

\What is that magic you inject in bringing the children that makes better?

It’s not really magic but God because we can’t train them on our own strength. God makes it easier for us. We have different types of children here, so its only God that gives direction.

Thank you very much.

Total Home Has Taught Me to Give without Restriction – Opeyemi, First Graduate

Home’s first graduate, Opeyemi

For Opeyemi, who has completed studies at the Redeemers’ University, the Home has tutored him in love, and bequeathed the virtue of giving to him. A graduate of Sociology, awaiting NYSC call up, the young man, who looked every inch aristocrat, share his experience in the Home he came into 13 years ago when he was just nine.

You are a child of Total Homes. Can you tell us your experience during your stay there?

It’s has been great, filled with lots of lessons, time tested advice, and without the Matron and Founder of this home, I won’t be here today. They have invested a lot in me.

You were nine years when you were admitted here, and today 13 years after, you are 22. What can you say is your takeaway from here

The biggest thing I’ve learned in this home is be a giver. I have realised that if the founder is not a giver, I won’t be who I am today. I won’t be a graduate. And I don’t know what would have happened to my siblings. So the biggest thing I’ve learned and one thing I will keep holding on to is the act of giving.

What was the relationship like between you and your younger ones in the home

We were brought up in good and lovely environment with love, and that has formed the basis of our relationship. They use love to bring us up and we use love to relate with one another.

How will you remember here when you eventually make it big in life

One thing is certain. I can never forget this home because any river that forgets its source will dry up. My matron tells me that every time. So, I can’t forget where I was brought up. Though I’m out of here, I still have other siblings here that need care. I can’t forget this home. There will always be a payback time, I’m sure.

Mr Ogungbe and Mrs Akpan

There must be a message you would wish to give those who seek a desirable orphanage home concerning this place.

Very simple! That Total Parental Guidance is a very lovely home. It’s a home to keeps ones mind be at rest because children are empowered here with something tangible.

Without iota of doubt, this place need more facilities in addition to the one it has already. So what would you say to government and kindhearted Nigerians

They should help the home to maximise its potential. The founder has done and is doing so much already, and needs the assistance of all and sundry to further produce great children that will build Nigeria for the better. The facility here can expanded so that more homeless children out there can further be accommodated.

The standard the Home dishes out to the public has made it a cynosure of all eyes, and seems to draw volunteers to home to offer one service or another, pro bono. One of sure volunteers is Olateju Oladipo, who took up the function of driving the children to and fro schools on a daily basis.

The common room

“Actually, it has been amazing because getting to work with kids is something that I did not have the opportunity to do before, but now it has shown me that wow, there’s so many things that I did not know and that I needed to know. And being with them taught me so much about even myself because I got to take them to school bring them back. It has been an amazing experience basically,” he said.

He rated the home, management and the children 10 over 10 in all areas, saying the kids have been groomed to be very respectful. He added that he has taken up the job of unpaid of PR person for the school because their services are comparable to the best.

Caregiver, Mrs Edith Eze

The Home is blessed with passionate caregivers, led by Mrs Edith Eze, who gave assurance that everything, including their remuneration is topnotch. According to Eze, we give the children the best of care and attention, and ensure they feel at home at home. We correct and rebuke when necessary, and perform general motherly duties.”

Headline

Tinubu’s 2026 Budget Bad Omen for Nigerians – PDP

Published

1 day ago

December 21, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The 2026 Appropriation Bill presented by President Bola Tinubu before a joint session of the National Assembly has been rated below par, and described as a bad omen for Nigerians, by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The Tanimu Turaki-led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said on Friday that President Bola Tinubu’s 2026 budget would add to the sufferings of Nigeria rather than giving them any renewed hope or consolidation of economic reforms.

The party noted that there would be no renewed hope in an environment where hunger, insecurity and other forms of deprivation were the lot of Nigerians.

It cited the 2025 World Bank Poverty & Equity Brief, which placed more than 30.9% of Nigerians below the international extreme poverty line.

“This shows that there is growth without prosperity for our citizens, meaning that despite GDP growth, poverty remains endemic”, the National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, stated on Friday soon after Tinubu presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill of N58.18trillion to a joint session of the Senate and the House of Representatives in Abuja.

Ememobong noted: “The budget, which is themed ‘Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity’, claims that the economy is stabilising and promises shared prosperity.

“In response, we see it rather as a budget of consolidated renewed sufferings, because what Nigerians have witnessed since the birth of this administration is nothing but unmitigated hardship on the people, while the governing class relishes in affluence.

“Nigerians have suffered greatly from many economic woes under this administration.

“President Tinubu cited a 3.98% GDP growth rate as evidence of economic stabilisation under his administration.

“However, it is well established that economic growth alone does not and cannot guarantee improved living standards for citizens.

“According to the 2025 World Bank Poverty & Equity Brief, more than 30.9% of Nigerians live below the international extreme poverty line. This shows that there is growth without prosperity for our citizens, meaning that despite GDP growth, poverty remains endemic.

“This clearly indicates that whatever economic gains exist are not reaching the majority of Nigerians.”

The PDP rejected the President’s figures on economic progress, saying rather that Nigeria has been on rever gear.

“The President stated that the economy under his watch grew by 3.98% without stating the sectors that stimulated the growth or identifying those who benefitted from it. This figure reflects the economic decline the nation has suffered under the leadership of the APC-led Federal government when compared to the growth rate of 6.87% recorded in 2013(same period under the last PDP administration), which was driven largely by non-oil sectors such as agriculture and trade.

“Today, the President celebrates a 3.98% growth rate, whereas a reality check reveals excruciating hunger, a high cost of living, and other indices of economic hardship, which Nigerians are currently facing.

“While we acknowledge the security allocation in the 2026 budget, we must remind the government and Nigerians that allocation alone is insufficient.”

The party added, “We therefore, demand effective and transparent execution to ensure that security funding translates into tangible improvements -modern equipment, adequate ammunition, improved intelligence capabilities, and better welfare for security personnel who are currently engaged in different theatres of armed conflict, where criminal non-state actors are alleged to possess superior arms compared to our security forces.

“Overall, we are deeply concerned about the unapologetic admission by the President that the execution of the 2024 capital budget had been extended to December 2025, while the 2025 budget is still in force.

“This confirms the long-standing rumours of the concurrent operation of multiple budgets.

“This cannot be described as best practice, as every budget has a defined period of operation and no two budgets should operate concurrently. The operation of different budgets at the same time undermines fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability. These multiple budgetary regimes show yet another unprecedented negative feat by this APC Bola Tinubu-led administration.

“We hereby call for increased transparency and accountability in the administration of the finances of our country, as these have been conspicuously absent so far under this administration.

“Financial accountability and transparency are critical to public trust-building and effective public administration.”

The budget with the theme, “Budget of consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity”, is N3.19trillion higher than the N54.99trillion approved for 2025.

The key aggregates of the budget are expected revenue of N34.33trillion; debt servicing of N15.52trillion; recurrent (non‑debt) expenditure of N15.25trillion; capital expenditure of N26.08trillion; a deficit of N23.85trillion representing 4.28% of GDP.

In addition, the budget will be benchmarked at $64.85 per barrel of crude oil, daily oil production of 1.8million barrels and a dollar/naira exchange.

Below is the full presentation of Tinubu’s 2026 Budget:

FULL SPEECH BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU AT THE PRESENTATION OF THE 2026 NATIONAL BUDGET

“Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity”

Distinguished Senate President,
Rt. Honourable Speaker and Honourable Members of the House of Representatives,
Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members of the National Assembly,
Fellow Nigerians,,

1. I am here today to fulfil an essential constitutional obligation by presenting the 2026 Appropriation Bill to this esteemed Joint Session of the National Assembly for your consideration.

2. This budget represents a defining moment in our national journey of reform and transformation. Over the last two and a half years, my government has methodically confronted long‑standing structural weaknesses, stabilised our economy, rebuilt confidence, and laid a durable foundation for the construction of a more resilient, inclusive, and dynamic Nigeria.

3. Though necessary, the reforms have not been painless. Families and businesses have faced pressure; established systems have been disrupted; and budget execution has been tested. I acknowledge these difficulties plainly. Yet, I am here, today, to assure Nigerians that their sacrifices are not in vain. The path of reform is seldom smooth, but it is the surest route to lasting stability and shared prosperity.

4. Today, I present a Budget that consolidates our gains, strengthens our resilience, and takes this country from out of the dark tunnel of hopelessness, from survival to growth.

5. The 2026 Budget is themed: “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity”. It reflects our determination to lock in macroeconomic stability, deepen competitiveness, and ensure that growth translates into decent jobs, rising incomes, and a better quality of life across for every Nigerian.

6. Mr. Chairman, Leaders of the National Assembly, while the global outlook continues to improve, this Budget aims to further strengthen our Nigerian economy to benefit all our citizens.

7. I am encouraged that our reform efforts are already yielding measurable results:
1) Our economy grew by 3.98 per cent in Q3 2025, up from 3.86 per cent in Q3 2024.

2) Inflation has moderated for eight consecutive months, with headline inflation declining to 14.45 per cent in November 2025, from 24.23 per cent in March 2025. With stabilising food and energy prices, tighter monetary conditions, and improving supply responses, we expect the deflationary trend to persist over the 2026 horizon, barring major supply shocks.

3) Oil production has improved, supported by enhanced security, technology deployment, and sector reforms.

4) Non‑oil revenues have expanded significantly through better tax administration.

5) Investor confidence is returning, reflected in capital inflows, renewed project financing, and stronger private‑sector participation.

6) Our external reserves rose to a 7‑year high of about US47 billion dollars as of last month, providing over 10 months of import cover and a more substantial buffer against shocks.

8. These outcomes are not accidental or lucky. They are the consequence of our difficult policy choices. Our next objective is to deepen our gains in pursuit of enduring and inclusive prosperity.

9. Mr. Chairman, Distinguished Members, our 2025 budget implementation faced the realities of transition and competing execution demands. As of Q3 2025, we recorded:
• 18.6 trillion naira in revenue — representing 61% of our target; and
• 24.66 trillion naira in expenditure — representing 60% of our target.

10. Following the extension of the 2024 capital budget execution to December 2025, a total of 2.23 trillion naira was released for the implementation of 2024 capital projects as of June 2025.

11. While fiscal challenges persisted, the government met its key obligations. However, only 3.10 trillion naira — about 17.7% of the 2025 capital budget — was released as of Q3, reflecting the emphasis on completing priority 2024 capital projects during the transition period.

12. Let me be clear: 2026 will be a year of stronger discipline in budget execution. I have issued directives to the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, the Accountant‑General of the Federation, and the Director‑General of the Budget Office of the Federation to ensure that the 2026 Budget is implemented strictly in line with the appropriated details and timelines.

13. We expect improved revenue performance through the new National Tax Acts and the ongoing reforms in the oil and gas sector — reforms designed not merely to raise revenue, but to drive transparency, efficiency, fairness, and long‑term value in our fiscal architecture.

14. I have also provided clear and direct guidance regarding Government‑Owned Enterprises. Heads of all agencies have been directed to meet their assigned revenue targets. To support this, we will deploy end‑to‑end digitisation of revenue mobilisation — standardised e‑collections, interoperable payment rails, automated reconciliation, data‑driven risk profiling, and real‑time performance dashboards — so leakages are sealed, compliance is verifiable, and remittances are prompt. These targets will form core components of performance evaluations and institutional scorecards. Nigeria can no longer afford leakages, inefficiencies, or underperformance in strategic agencies. Every institution must play its part.

15. Mr Chairman and fellow Nigerians, the 2026 Budget is guided by four clear objectives:
1) Consolidate macroeconomic stability;
2) Improve the business and investment environment;
3) Promote job‑rich growth and reduce poverty; and
4) Strengthen human capital development while protecting the vulnerable.

16. In short: we will spend with purpose, manage debt with discipline, and pursue broad-based, sustainable growth.

17. Distinguished Members, the 2026 Federal Budget is anchored on realism, prudence, and growth.

18. The key aggregates are as follows:
1) Expected total revenue is 34.33 trillion naira.
2) Projected total expenditure is 58.18 trillion naira, including 15.52 trillion naira for debt servicing.
3) Recurrent (non‑debt) expenditure is 15.25 trillion naira.
4) Capital expenditure will be 26.08 trillion.
5) The Budget deficit is expected to be 23.85 trillion naira, representing 4.28% of GDP.

19. These numbers are not mere accounting lines. They are a statement of national priorities. We remain firmly committed to fiscal sustainability, debt transparency, and value‑for‑money spending.

20. The 2026–2028 Medium‑Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper sets the parameters for this Budget. Our projections are based on:
1) a conservative crude oil benchmark of US64.85 dollars per barrel;
2) crude oil production of 1.84 million barrels per day; and
3) an average exchange rate of 1,400 naira to the US Dollar for the 2026 fiscal year.

21. We will continue to reduce waste, strengthen controls, and ensure that every naira borrowed or spent delivers measurable public value.

22. Our allocations reflect the Renewed Hope Agenda and the practical needs of Nigerians. Key sectoral provisions include:
1) Defence and security: 5.41 trillion naira
2) Infrastructure: 3.56 trillion naira
3) Education: 3.52 trillion naira
4) Health: 2.48 trillion naira

23. These priorities are interlinked. Without security, investment will not thrive. Without educated and healthy citizens, productivity will not rise. Without infrastructure, jobs and enterprises will not scale. This Budget is, therefore, designed to provide a single, coherent programme of national renewal.

A. National Security and Peacebuilding
24. National Security remains the foundation of development. The 2026 Budget strengthens support for:
• modernisation of the Armed Forces;
• intelligence‑driven policing and joint operations;
• border security and technology‑enabled surveillance; and
• community‑based peacebuilding and conflict prevention.

25. We will invest in security with clear accountability for outcomes — because security spending must deliver results. To secure our country, our priority will remain on increasing the fighting capability of our armed forces and other security agencies and boosting the effectiveness of our fighting forces with cutting-edge equipment and other hardware.

26. We will usher in a new era of criminal justice. We will show no mercy to those who commit or support acts of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping for ransom and other violent crimes.

27. Our administration is resetting the national security architecture and establishing a new national counterterrorism doctrine — a holistic redesign anchored on unified command, intelligence gathering, community stability, and counter – insurgency. This new doctrine will fundamentally change how we confront terrorism and other violent crimes.

28. Under this new architecture, any armed group or gun-wielding non-state actors operating outside state authority will be regarded as terrorists.

29. Bandits, militias, armed gangs, armed robbers, violent cults, forest-based armed groups and foreign-linked mercenaries will all be targeted. We will go after all those who perpetrate violence for political or sectarian ends, along with those who finance and facilitate their evil schemes.

B. Human Capital Development: Education and Health
30. No nation can grow beyond the quality of its people. The 2026 Budget strengthens investments in education, skills, healthcare, and social protection.

31. In education, we are expanding access to higher education through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. Over seven hundred and eighty eight thousand students have been supported, in partnership with two hundred and twenty nine tertiary institutions nationwide.

32. In healthcare, I am pleased to highlight that investment in healthcare is 6 per cent of the total budget size, net of liabilities.

33. We also appreciate the support of international partners. Recent high‑level engagements with the Government of the United States have opened the door to over 500 million United States dollars for health interventions across Nigeria. We welcome this partnership and assure Nigerians that these resources will be deployed transparently and effectively.

C. Infrastructure and Economic Productivity
34. Across the nation, projects of all shapes and sizes are moving from vision to reality. These include transport and energy infrastructure, port modernisation, agricultural reforms, and strategic investments to unlock private capital.

35. We will take decisive steps to strengthen agricultural markets. Food security shall remain a national priority. The 2026 Budget focuses on input financing and mechanisation; irrigation and climate‑resilient agriculture; storage and processing; and agro‑value chains.

36. These measures will reduce post‑harvest losses, improve incomes for small holders, deepen agro‑industrialisation, and build a more resilient, diversified economy.
37. In 2026, the Bank of Agriculture plans to plant confidence back into our soil; mechanising through seven regional hubs, protecting harvests with fair prices and substantial reserves, providing affordable finance to millions of small holders and growing export value. Under the plan, Nigerian farmers will cultivate one million hectares, create hundreds of thousands of jobs, and prove that prosperity can rise through better use of our God given land.

D. Procurement
38. Starting in November last year, the government has embarked upon a comprehensive framework of procurement reforms. These reforms have enhanced efficiency and generated significant cost savings for the government, resulting in resulting in reduced processing times for Government contracts and better enforcement procedures directed against erring contractors and government officials.

39. Our Nigeria First Policy has been established to encourage self-sufficiency and sustainable growth within Nigeria by promoting domestic products and businesses. By mandating that all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) consider Nigerian-made goods and local companies as their primary option, the policy aims to support local industries, create job opportunities, and reduce dependency on imported items. This bold new approach is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian enterprises, foster innovation, and ultimately contribute to the country’s overall economic development.

40. Distinguished Members and fellow Nigerians, the most significant budget is not the one we announce. It is the one we deliver.

41. Therefore, 2026 will be guided by three practical commitments:
1) Better revenue mobilisation through efficiency, transparency, and compliance.
2) Better spending by prioritising projects that can be completed, measured, and felt by citizens.
3) Better accountability through strengthening of procurement discipline, monitoring, and reporting.

42. We will build trust by matching our words with results, and our allocations with outcomes.

43. Distinguished Members of the National Assembly, fellow Nigerians, the 2026 Budget is not a budget of promises; it is a Budget of consolidation, renewed resilience and shared prosperity. It builds on the reforms of the past two and a half years, addresses emerging challenges, and sets a clear path towards a more secure, more competitive, more equitable, and more hopeful Nigeria.

44. I commend the people of this country for their understanding and resilience. My administration remains committed to easing the burdens of the transition to a more stable and prosperous nation. We promise to make sure that the benefits of reform reach households and communities across the Federation.

45. In united purpose between the Executive and the Legislature; and with the resilience of the Nigerian people, we will deliver the full promise of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

46. It is, therefore, with great pleasure that I lay before this distinguished Joint Session of the National Assembly; the 2026 Appropriation Bill of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, titled: “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity”. I seek your partnership in charting the nation’s fiscal course for the coming year.

47. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

48. Thank you.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President, Commander-in-Chief of The Armed Forces,
Federal Republic of Nigeria

Headline

Insecurity: Akpabio Begs Tinubu to Reinstate Police Orderlies for NASS Members

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2025

Eric

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the directive withdrawing police orderlies from members of the National Assembly, citing safety concerns.

Akpabio made the appeal during the presentation of the 2026 budget to a joint session of the National Assembly, by President Tinubu, warning that some lawmakers fear they might be unable to return home safely following the withdrawal.

His said: “As we direct the security agencies to withdraw policemen from critical areas, some of the National Assembly said I should let you know they may not be able to go home today.

“On that note, we plead with Mr. President for a review of the decision.”

President Tinubu, on November 23, ordered the withdrawal of police officers attached to Very Important Persons (VIPs), directing that they be redeployed to core policing duties across the country.

According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu issued the directive after a security meeting with Service Chiefs and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) following heightened security issues in the country.

Under the order, VIPs requiring security are to seek protection from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as the Federal government seeks to boost police presence in communities, particularly in remote areas grappling with insecurity.

Tinubu later reaffirmed the directive on December 10, moments before presiding over the Federal Executive Council, expressing frustration over delays in implementation.

He instructed the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to work with the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and the Civil Defence Corps to immediately replace withdrawn escorts to avoid exposing individuals to danger.

“I honestly believe in what I said…It should be effected. If you have any problem because of the nature of your assignment, contact the IGP and get my clearance,” Tinubu said.

“The minister of interior should liaise IG and the Civil Defence structure to replace those police officers who are on special security duties.

“So that you don’t leave people exposed,” he said.

Headline

Defence Gulps Lion Share As Tinubu Presents N58.47trn 2026 Budget to NASS

Published

2 days ago

December 19, 2025

Eric

President Bola Tinubu has presented a budget of N58.47 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year to a joint session of the National Assembly, with capital recurrent (non‑debt) expenditure standing at N15.25 trillion.

Tinubu presented the budget on Friday, pegging the capital expenditure at N26.08 trillion and putting the crude oil benchmark at US$64.85 per barrel.

He said the expected total revenue is N34.33 trillion, projected total expenditure: N58.18 trillion, including N15.52 trillion for debt servicing. The budget is N23.85 trillion, representing 4.28% of GDP.

The budget was anchored on a crude oil production of 1.84 million barrels per day, and an exchange rate of N1,400 to the US Dollar for the 2026 fiscal year.

In terms of sectoral allocation, defence and security took the lion’s share with N 5.41 trillion, followed by infrastructure at N3.56 trillion.