Bauchi Assembly Passes ₦877.05bn 2026 Budget, Approves Disability Rights Bill
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Bauchi State House of Assembly has passed the 2026 Appropriation Bill totaling eight hundred and seventy-seven billion, fifty-two million, nine hundred and seven thousand, nine hundred naira (₦877.05 billion) into law, marking a major legislative milestone for the state’s fiscal planning.
The budget was approved following the presentation and adoption of the report of the House Committee on Appropriation, chaired by Hon. Wanzam Mohammed, during plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Sulaiman.
A detailed breakdown of the approved estimates shows that ₦308.7 billion, representing 35.20 percent of the total budget, has been allocated to recurrent expenditure, while ₦568.3 billion is devoted to capital expenditure.
The capital component is expected to drive infrastructure development, enhance social services, and stimulate economic growth across the state.
In its report, the Appropriation Committee commended the state government for key fiscal reforms, including the establishment of a Fiscal Service Commission, capacity building on the new budget framework, enforcement of sanctions against extra-budgetary spending, timely release of funds to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as the strengthening of audit and procurement processes.
In the same sitting, the Assembly also passed a bill designed to ensure the full integration of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) into society. Leading debate, lawmakers explained that the legislation prohibits all forms of discrimination against PWDs and prescribes penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for violators.
The law mandates accessibility in public buildings, facilities, and transportation systems through the provision of ramps, lifts, and other support aids.
It also provides for the establishment of a Commission for Persons with Disabilities to oversee implementation, handle complaints, and support victims of rights violations.
Additional provisions guarantee access to inclusive education, subsidized healthcare, political participation, social protection, public housing, and poverty reduction programmes, with public institutions required to reserve at least ten percent of their programmes for PWDs.
The Assembly noted that the bill aligns with Bauchi State’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Both laws await the assent of the Governor for full implementation.
