Headline

Aig-lmoukhuede Undermining My Natural and Legal Roles As Guardian, Wigwe’s Father, Pastor Shyngle Cries Out

Published

1 year ago

October 17, 2024

Eric

Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, the father of late Chairman of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, has raised alarm over what he described as Mr. Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede’s plan to undermine his natural and legal roles as guardian over his son’s Estates and children.

The concerns were raised in an affidavit submitted at the High Court of Lagos on his behalf by someone, who identified himself as a cousin of late Wigwe, Christian Wigwe.

The Affidavit is presented below in full AS RECEIVED:

“IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE IN THE PROBATE REGISTRY
HOLDEN AT IKEJA
AFFIDA TIN SUPP RTOF CA EAT
I, Christian Wigwe, Male, Christian, Nigerian of full nge; n eq@ßNenéur, certified mediator with specialization in transformative mcdiatlönö&n respectively, resident at Plot 718, Sentinel Crescent, Durumi District, ‘l”crritory, Abuja do hereby make oath and state as follows:
1. I am a cousin to Herbert Onyewrumbu Wigwe (hereinafter referred to as ‘ ‘the deceased”), who passed away on 9 th of February, 2024 along with his wife, Doreen Chizoba Wigwe, and son, Chizi Wigwe in an aircraft crash.
The deceased owned multiple real and personal assets both in Nigeria and abroad and left behind the following children (in their order of seniority):
a) Otutochi Channel Wigwe 25 years old
b) Chituru David Wigwe 16 years old
c) \Vegu Hannah Wigwc •14 years old
d) C)kachi Great \Vigwe 2 years old.
3. I arn familiar with the circumstances surrounding the deceasedls Will and the appointment of guardianship (ad litem) for his minor children – David, Hannah and Great.
4. FINhe deceased’s Will dated the 9 th of July, 2013 was lodged at the Probate Registry.
5. ‘Ithe purported \Vill was executed in the United States of America (“USA”), and concerns have been raised regarding its applicabilitv to the assets and matters within •s •e,risdiction.
6. I do not know who lodged the \Vill in the •Probate Registry of the Lagos State High Court, Oiven that the Will was drawn up in 2013 in the USA and che deceased was accustomed to keeping his affairs separate and Segregated in different countries.
I verily believe that the Will was lodged at the Probate Registry of the Lagos State High Court after the death of the deceased to give the impression that the deceased intended its applicability co extend to his assets in Nigeria,
8. The purported Will seems to apply primarily to the assets of the deceased located in the USA, I.l•svflanguage and provisions suggest a focus on matters within the USA.
9. The Will does not clearly statc that it extends beyond the USA to cover assets or matters within Nigeria, This raises concerns about whether the deceasedl s assets in Nigeria are addressed Of governed by the Will at all.
10. The Will does not mention• any beneficiaries, neither docs it make provision for the guardianship of the deceased’s minor children under Nigerian or American law.
11, ‘llhe minor children have since been brought up in Nigeria in accordance with Nigerian values and customs.
12. Since the death of Herbert and Chizoba Wigwe (parents of the minors), it is not clear svho has acted as legal guardian for the minor children, other than the fact that they live at No. 10, Oronmiyan Street, Queen’s Drive, Ikoyi, Lagos, which is where their parents lived. The family had moved into the residence just three months prior to their parent’s death.
13. In accordance with African values and good order, it will naturally be the father of the deceased, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe who will act as guardian to the minor children or at the very lc.asc, he will be consulted to ascertain who should act as guardian.
Shynglc Wigwe (grandfather) should ordinarily play a role in determining the welfare of his grandchildren. Given his fatherly role, his involvement in their upbringing would be both natural and beneficial.
Pastor Shyngle Wigwe has suffered an unimaginable loss with the passing of his son, Herbert Wigwe, his daughter-in-law, Doren Chizoba Wigwc, and his grandson, Chizi Wigwe, (his children) all in one day. This traumatic event has deeply affected him and his family.
16. In light of this, appointing Of enabling Pastor Shyngle Wigwe to act as the legal guardian of his grandchildren would not only provide stability for the children but also servc as a significant part of the healing process for him. His role as guardian would help hi t?l cope with this profound loss while ensuring the welfare of his grandchildren is well cared for.
Besides the traumatic circumstance under which Pastor Shyngle Wigwe lost his children, he is well-qualified and accomplished to perform the role of a legal guardian in that:
a) He is a trained Electrical Engineer by profession.
b) He retired as an accomplished civil servant after rising to the height of his career as the Director-G eneral of INJPTf\;
c) He is a devoted Christian;
d) He is the head of the Wigwe family;
e) He is a certified Mediator.
18. Notwithstanding these credentials that equip Pastor Shyngle Wigwe to act in the capacity of guardian or to be consulted as to whom should act in that capacity, the business partner of the deceased, Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede has assumed indirect guardianship and custody of the deceased’s children.
19. In assuming this indirect role of guardianship, Aigboje Aig-lmoukhucde hid* subtly created a situation that makes it difficult for Pastor Shyngle Wigwe to act as guardian for the children, particularly the minor children.
20. Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede has also cleverly withheld relevant information regarding the deceased’s Estate from Pastor Shyngle Wigwe and other members of the family disenabling any such member from making informed decision regarding the deceased’s children (his grandchildren).
21. I wras informed by Pastor Shyngle Wigwe on the 6th day of October 2024, at approximately 8pm, at his residence located at 7, Epsom Street, Northern Foreshore Estate, Off Chevron I)rivc., Eti- Osa LGA, Lagos State, that the circumstancc under which Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede has caused Pastor Shyngle to be excluded from the affairs of the deceased’s minor children and blocked him from accessing any information regarding the management of the assets of the deceased are as follows:
a) Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede is currently controlling the assets of the Late Herbert Wigwe. While Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, otherwise natural guardian of Herbert’s minor children, would usually not be bothered by this, the way Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede is handling the assets is grossly undermining Pastor Shyngle Wigwe’s role as guardian and the head of the Wigwe family.
b) Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede’s access to Herbert’s funds gives him a certain level s of influence over decisions that affect the deceased’s children. Although he is not their legal guardian, his control over the estate puts him In 41 position where he indirectly acts as one. This situation has made Pastor Shyngle \X’igwc uneasy,
c) Ordinarily, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe would not have an issue with Aigboje Aig-lmoukhucde managing Herbert’s assets. However, Aigboje .\igImoukhuede’s influence is now extending beyond financial matters and affecting areas where Pastor Shyngle Wigwe should have full authority.
d) Pastor Shyngle Wigwe feels that his natural role as guårdian is being undermined. Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede’s decisions concerning the estate are crossing into the territory that Pastor Shyngle Wigwe should manage for his grandchildren. ‘[his overlap is causing tension.
e) Pastor *hygnlc Wigwe is concerned that if this continues, his legal and natural role as guardian will be further eroded.
f) Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede has continued to cover some financial support of the deceased’s dependent parents, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe and Mrs, Stella Affiong-Wigwe, as well as the ongoing expenses related to the deceased’s chlldrena
g) Despite his continued financial involvement, he has not provided any formal updates or disclosed how these expenses are being met or their impact on the overall Estate.
h) ‘[his lack of transparency has left the beneficiaries and other stakeholders uninformed about the financial status of the Estate and whether these expenses arc affecting its valuc or liquidity.
i) He has not disclosed any information regarding the general wclPare, care, education or guardianship of the minor children or the administration of the Estate.
j) The absence of critical information or any accounting makes it unclear how much of the deceased’s wealth is being expended for the sustenance of the deceased’s dependents.
k) ‘Ihe deceased cousin, Uchc Wigwe has been named in a suit instituted in the USA against the airline company that owned the helicopter that crashed causing the death of the deceased, his wife and his son.
1) Aigbojc Aig-lmoukhuede appears comfortable with a situation where Uche Wigwe is named as guardian even if it undermines the authority of the family as long as it gives Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede son-xe indirect control over the affairs of -the deceased knowing that he has an over bearing influence over Uche Wig-wc.
m) Despite these concerns, Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede seems unconcerned. His main interest appears to be preserving his influence and maintaining control over the assets of the deceased, which Uche Wigwe, under his direction, allows him to achieve.
22. During our conversation on the same day, time and location stated above, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe informed me of the above. stated facts and expressed the following concerns, which I verily bellcve•
a) *Ilv,lt the significant age gap between Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede and both Uche Wigwe and Otucochi Wigwe, along with Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede>s prominent status, raises doubts about the independence of the decisions made by ()tutochi Wigwe and Uche Wigwe, particularly in their roles as guardians of the minor children and in managing the deceased’s estate.
b) ‘I%hat Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede’s influence over both Otutochi Wigwe and Uche Wigwe is affecting the proper guardianship of the minor children.
c) “I*hat this influence extends to decisions concerning the deceased’s estate, undermining the autonomy of the family in these critical matters.
d) That Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede’s overbearing influence over Otutochi Wigwe and Uche Wigwe creates tension within the fan-lily, given the delicate nature of the estate and guardianship issues.
e) Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuedc’s overbearing nature, coupled with his unrestricted access to Herbert’s wealth, is leading some family members to gravitate towards him in an effort to secure his favor. This dynamics is creating tension within the family, as it is systematically alienating other members, and this could strain relationships and lead to divisions amonofamily members if not addressed appropriately.
23. The purported Will (against which a Caveat is being filed) which has been deposited with the High Court within the jurisdiction prescribes that:
a) Chizoba Wigwe, the deceased’s wife, is the first choice as personal representative, However, she has passed away.
b) Betty Blanco, the deceased’s solicitor and an American, is named as the second choice to act as the representative in the event of Chizoba’s death.
c) With Chizob’,l \XfigwcPs death, Betty Blanco would ordinarily assume the role of the personal representative of the deceased’s assets.
d) BctLY Blanco, being an American, is unlikely to nyanage the deceased’s assets in Nigeria due to jurisdictional and practical limitations.
e) a result, Uche Wigwe, who was named as the default representative, has now assumed the role of personal representative.
f) A scheme appears to have been orchestrated to position Uche Wigwe as the personal representative, knowing that Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede wields considerable influence over Uchc Wigwe.
g) Through this arrano•ement, Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede becomes an indirect controlling agent over thc deceased’s assets, without being formally accountable to the beneficiaries or dependents of the listatc.
h) CJchc Wio•we is now placed in a conflicting role, serving as both the personal representative of the deceased’s list’,lte and the gwardian of the minor children.
1
i) #1his dual role creates a clear conflict of interest and great responsibility, which could affect the proper management of the Estate and the guardianship of the deceased’s minor children.
24. It is considered an abomination within the Wigxve family hierarchy to nominate Uche Wigwe, the cousin of the deceased, as the guardian of the minor children while their grandfather is still alive.
25. Fllhe family believes that Uche Wigwe’s nomination as both the personal representative of the Estate and the guardian of the minor children undermines the authority and role of the family head, Pastor Shyngle Wigsve.
26. The dual roles of Uchc Wigwe as personal rcpresentativc of the Estate and guardian of the children present a significant conflict of interest, which raises concerns about fairness and transparency in the administration of the deceased Estate.
27. rrhis awkward situation is being fuelled by Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede, who has a strong and overbearing influence over Uche Wigwe who is unable to confront him.
28. By supporting Uche Wigwe’s appointment, Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuedc ensures that he can indirectly control key decisions related to Herbert’s family matters.
29. Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede appears to be taking advantage of Uche Wigwe’s respect and reluctance to oppose him, allowing Aigbojc Aig-lmoukhuede to exert undue influence over matters that should be handled by the family.
30. Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede also holds sway over I-Ictbert’s eldest daughter, Otutochi Wigwe, further consolidating his influence. This allows him to manage affairs that should ordinarily remain within the control of the family,
31. It is essential that the children’s welfare is prioritized in all decisions relating to the estate. Proper oversight is crucial to prevent any conflicts from impacting their rightful inheritance including the Wigwe family values The estate should serve to support their upbringing and education as well as peculiar values, until they reach the agc of majority.
32. Otutochi Wigwe, the 25-year-old daughter of the deceased, requires assistance from the grandparents to take care of her younger siblings.
33. Otutochi Wigwe, having grown up knowing Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede as her father’s business partner is reluctant to ask relevant questions out of fear of antagonizing him. In addition, being brought up in the African values, she is hesitant to challenge such traditional values by asking pertinent questions in relation to the administration of the deceased’s Estate as well as the guardianship of her minor siblings.
34. avoid such apprehension for confrontation, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe expected that he will be consultecl in the affairs of the deceased particularly as regards the welfare and custody of the minor children. ‘llhat he will stand as an interested party to protect the interest of thc deceased’s children.
35. Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede has imposed a domineering presence in Otutochi Wigwe’s life, such that there is reason to ascertain whether her decisions are truly independent.
36. Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede has deliberately orchestrated the scheme above including relying on the purported Will of which concerns have been raised about its applicability to assets in Nigeria, to give Uche Wigwe undue authority that undermines the deceased’s family hierarchy.
‘l’he ultimate goal, being to give Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuecle a controlling dominance over the deceased’s family and by extension, his assets.
38. Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede’s influence over Otutochi Wigwc has tended toward encouraging an unperturbed distance between her and her grandfather as long as this enables him to remain in direct Of indirect control of the deceased’s assets.
39. l\igboje Aig-lmoukhuedc’s actions continue to create tension within the family.
40s Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, who is 90 years old, is deeply distressed by the lack of fcspcct shown to him by Aigboje Aig-lmoukhuede in matters concerning the guardianship of his minor grandchildren,
41. rIlhe exclusion of the grandfather, who is an accomplished civil servant and certified nwdiator, from decisions related to the guardianship of his minor grandchildren and management of his deceased son’s Estate continues to cause hiin significant emotional pain.
42. ‘lhe decisions regarding the guardianship of the deceased’s minor children, including the appointment of Uche Wigwe, were made without consulting the grandfather, who holds a key leadership role within the family.
43. *I’he grandfather’s health has deteriorated due to the anxiety and distress caused by improper care and welfare of his grandchildren and the lack of information regarding his deceased son’s Estate.
44. The deceased’s Will lodged in the Probate Registry of the Lagos State High Court refers to a Trust having been created. But the Will does not provide any specific details regarding the terms or conditions of the Trust, leaving the family uncertain about its proper administration.
4-5. ‘I the absence of clear instructions• about the Trust raises questions about whether the best interests of the minor children will be safeguarded.
46. I am informed by Pastor Shyngle Wigwe that the deceased’s family requests that a caveat be placed on the grant of letters of administration/probate of the deceased’s Estate to prevent any further action being taken without their involvement.
‘”Ilhis affidavit is made in good faith and in the best interest of the deceased’s minor children and the family as a whole.

to at Lhe I-ligh Court Registry, _l:agos, Nigeria

BEFORE ME COMMISSIONER FOR OATHS”

Headline

Tinubu’s 2026 Budget Bad Omen for Nigerians – PDP

Published

3 days 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

4 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

4 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.