National Assembly Joint C’ttee Suspends NJC Budget Defence, Seeks Review of N799.9bn 2026 Proposal
The Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Judiciary has suspended the budget defence session of the National Judicial Council (NJC), directing the council to reassess its proposed N799.9 billion allocation for the 2026 fiscal year and correct identified deficiencies.
The session, chaired by Senator Adeniyi Ayodele Adegbonmire, was convened to examine the NJC’s financial request and assess the council’s preparedness to manage judiciary operations in line with national fiscal realities. The NJC Secretary, Ahmed Gambo Saleh, appeared before the panel to present the council’s budget proposal, detailing the funding requirements and operational challenges confronting the judiciary.
Saleh disclosed that the NJC was initially allocated N341 billion for the 2025 fiscal year. This amount was later increased to N541 billion due to rising personnel costs, operational demands, and other unforeseen expenditures. He noted, however, that only 65 percent of the approved 2025 budget had been released, significantly affecting the council’s ability to implement key programs, pay staff salaries in full, and maintain infrastructure.
In presenting the 2026 budget request, Saleh said the council seeks N799.9 billion to effectively run the judiciary and meet expanding institutional needs. He stressed that full and timely release of funds would ensure the efficient administration of justice nationwide, improve judicial service delivery, and support the operational needs of courts and tribunals across the country.
The NJC Secretary also highlighted the persistent shortage of adequate accommodation for judicial officers and staff, noting that the deficit continues to undermine productivity and staff welfare. He stated that increased funding would allow the council to address critical infrastructure gaps, enhance staff welfare, and strengthen the overall administration of justice.
Senator Adegbonmire, in response, raised concerns over omissions, inconsistencies, and unclear justifications in the submitted budget estimates. He emphasized the need for a detailed, transparent, and well-structured proposal that aligns with national fiscal realities and reflects the priorities of the judiciary. He added that as a critical arm of government, the judiciary must demonstrate accountability in its budget submissions, ensuring clarity in projected expenditures and operational plans.
After thorough deliberations, the joint committee adjourned the budget defence session and directed the NJC to revisit its proposed allocation. The council has been instructed to prepare a more comprehensive, structured, and detailed submission for further legislative scrutiny and consideration.
The suspension underscores the National Assembly’s insistence on transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the management of public funds within the judiciary, highlighting the critical role of proper budget planning in enhancing the performance of one of Nigeria’s key governmental institutions.