Senate Approves ₦140bn Budget for North-Central Commission, Orders Focus on Food and Security

The North-Central Development Commission (NCDC) has secured the financial “green light” to drive development across the “Middle Belt” in 2026. On Monday, the Senate Committee overseeing the commission gave its formal nod to a ₦140 billion budget, but with a strict set of “marching orders”: the money must primarily protect the farm and the farmer.

During the budget defense session in Abuja, Committee Chairman Senator Titus Zam emphasized that the commission’s mandate cannot exist in a vacuum. He argued that since the North-Central region is Nigeria’s agricultural engine room, any development plan that doesn’t put food security and rural safety at the top of the list is a non-starter.

“We have considered the estimates and found them relevant, but we have requested that they prioritize expenditures in line with the immediate needs of the people,” Senator Zam told reporters after a closed-door session. “North-Central is mostly agricultural; therefore, agriculture must take a pride of place. They are also working with security experts to ensure that security agencies have the support they need to keep the region safe.”

The ₦140 billion package is expected to be split, with a heavy ₦100 billion leaning toward capital projects ranging from road construction to the resettlement of displaced persons while ₦40 billion will handle the commission’s administrative “take-off” costs and personnel.

While the approval is a victory for the young commission, the Senate didn’t hold back on its criticism of last year’s performance. Senator Zam noted a “dissatisfaction” with how slowly the 2025 capital funds were spent, warning that the people of the North-Central expect to see “value for every kobo” in the coming year.

With the 2026 budget now cleared by the Senate panel, the NCDC management, led by Dr. Cyril Tsenyil, is under pressure to turn these billions into visible tractors, safer roads, and a “State of Harmony” for millions of residents in the region.