FIC Report (Lagos State) – Nigeria’s 2026 budgets are beginning to paint a clear picture of priorities—security at the federal level and development at the state level, with Lagos leading the charge.
In Abuja, the Federal Government has proposed over ₦13.1 billion for arms, ammunition and protective equipment in the 2026 appropriation bill. The funds are spread across key security agencies, with the Nigerian Air Force receiving the largest allocation for aircraft platforms, weapons and rifles. The Police, DSS, Immigration Service and Defence institutions are also included, signalling a renewed push to strengthen national security after a sharp drop in arms imports in 2025.
Meanwhile, in Lagos, the focus is squarely on economic growth and everyday impact. The State House of Assembly has approved a ₦4.44 trillion 2026 budget, splitting spending almost evenly between recurrent costs and capital projects such as roads, transport, housing and public infrastructure. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu describes it as a “Budget of Shared Prosperity,” aimed at reducing poverty and improving living standards across the state.
The confidence behind the massive Lagos budget is backed by performance. State officials say the 2025 budget recorded over 80 per cent implementation, giving lawmakers room to expand spending for 2026.
Side by side, the contrast is clear: while the Federal Government tightens security nationwide, Lagos is investing heavily in growth, infrastructure and people. Together, both spending plans underline a shared reality—security and prosperity go hand in hand, and neither can thrive without the other.
Signed
Gloria Dawodu
CI&PRO
