President Bola Tinubu has asked the House of Representatives to expedite consideration and passage of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) 2026 statutory budget, with youth empowerment, electricity, education, healthcare, security and agriculture identified as the commission’s key spending priorities.
The President made the request in a letter dated August 20, 2026, addressed to Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, transmitting the proposed budget for legislative approval.
According to Tinubu, the budget proposal was prepared by the Minister of Niger Delta Development in line with constitutional provisions and reflects the Federal Government’s fiscal direction under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“In line with the provisions of Section 121 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Development has prepared the 2026 Statutory Budget Proposal of the NDDC, which is herewith forwarded for consideration and passage by the House of Representatives,” the President wrote.
He explained that the spending plan was based on the commission’s projected revenue and expenditure, while taking into account the Federal Government’s 2024–2026 Economic Recovery Growth Plan and the assumptions guiding the 2026 Appropriation Act.
Tinubu said the proposed allocations were designed to confront longstanding developmental challenges in the Niger Delta by expanding economic opportunities and improving access to essential services.
“The House of Representatives is invited to note that the NDDC is prioritising improvement in Youth Empowerment, Energy and Power Supply, Education, Industrial and Enterprise Development, Health, Security and increased productivity in Agriculture in order to lift a significant number of our citizens out of poverty,” he stated.
The renewed emphasis on youth empowerment and enterprise development comes amid persistent concerns over unemployment and limited livelihood opportunities for the region’s growing youth population.
Similarly, investments in power, agriculture and other infrastructure are expected to stimulate economic activities and improve living conditions across communities in the nine Niger Delta states. Tinubu urged the House to give the proposal prompt legislative attention.
“While I look forward to the timely passage of the 2026 Statutory Budget Proposal of the NDDC by the House of Representatives, please accept, Rt. Honourable Speaker, the assurances of my highest regards,” the President said.
The proposed budget will now undergo legislative scrutiny by the House and its relevant committees before consideration for passage.