Federal Government Allocates ₦3.23tn for Roads in 2026 Budget

The Federal Government has unveiled plans to spend a staggering ₦3.23 trillion on federal road construction and rehabilitation in the proposed 2026 budget, marking a dramatic increase in funding compared with previous years. This figure reflects a 489 per cent rise from the ₦548.56 billion allocated for road projects in the 2024 budget and more than triples the ₦1.013 trillion set aside in 2025.

According to budget proposals presented to the National Assembly, the bulk of the allocation will go toward completing long‑delayed highways, upgrading key transport corridors, and advancing major infrastructure initiatives across the country. The Ministry of Works’ capital budget includes funds for new road construction, rehabilitation works, and facility upgrades aimed at improving connectivity and reducing transport costs.

Key projects detailed in the proposal span federal corridors linking major cities and states, with significant sums earmarked for reconstruction, dualisation, and emergency repairs. Rural and urban routes in regions including the North‑East, South‑East, South‑South, and South‑West are set to benefit from targeted investments as part of the government’s drive to accelerate national road development.

Government officials say the enhanced funding underscores a renewed commitment to expanding and modernising Nigeria’s transport infrastructure, which they argue is critical to boosting trade, fostering economic growth, and facilitating regional integration. However, analysts note that successful implementation will depend on effective project execution, timely release of funds, and contractor performance.

Lawmakers are expected to scrutinise the ambitious road works allocation as part of wider budget deliberations, with discussions likely to focus on project prioritisation, regional balance, and the government’s capacity to deliver on its infrastructure pledges.