The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has said the House will prioritise scrutiny of the 2026 budget proposal and consideration of key aspects of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill as lawmakers resume full legislative activities.
Kalu made the disclosure on Tuesday during plenary, following the House’s return from the Christmas and New Year recess.
He said electoral reforms would remain a major focus for the National Assembly in 2026, noting that progress on the Electoral Act would require coordination between both chambers.
“There are targets and milestones that we hope to achieve this year. One of them is the Electoral Act. The coming days will show the Senate doing their part, having done our part,” Kalu said.
He also said the House would intensify work on priority areas of the 1999 Constitution identified by the House Committee on Constitution Review, including proposals on devolution of powers, local government autonomy and other governance reforms.
On the 2026 Appropriation Bill, the Deputy Speaker assured that the House would subject the proposal to detailed scrutiny to ensure it supports effective governance and national development.
“The budget is currently before us, and with the support of House committees, we will do due diligence to ensure it becomes a working instrument for MDAs and for the nation at large,” he said.
Lawmakers are expected to closely examine revenue projections, borrowing plans and sectoral allocations, amid economic pressures linked to inflation, infrastructure needs and debt management.
The House has also pledged stronger oversight of budget implementation, in response to concerns over delays in fund releases and poor execution of capital projects.
Keywords: House of Representatives, 2026 budget, Electoral Act, Benjamin Kalu, constitutional review
