By Philomina Attah
Abuja, Dec. 24, 2025
In a decisive move signaling a major developmental focus, the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) has unveiled a N37.9 billion budget proposal for 2026, with a groundbreaking commitment to allocate 80% of its capital expenditure to rural infrastructure. This strategic allocation, presented by Chairman Mr. Christopher Maikalangu to the AMAC Legislative Council, represents more than a fiscal plan—it is a targeted intervention aimed at bridging the stark urban-rural divide within the nation’s capital territory.
Chairman Maikalangu’s presentation underscored a three-year track record of “meticulous implementation,” asserting that the evidence of past budgets is “visible for all to see.” This claim invites deeper scrutiny into what constitutes “rural infrastructure” in this context. Typically, for area councils like AMAC, this encompasses a critical range of projects: the construction and rehabilitation of feeder roads to connect agrarian communities to markets, the provision of potable water through boreholes and small water schemes, the upgrade of primary healthcare centers, and the electrification of underserved communities. The Chairman’s pledge that “all the rural areas get what they want” suggests a potential shift towards community-participatory budgeting, a model where local needs directly inform project selection.
The sheer scale of the 80% allocation raises important questions about execution capacity and oversight. While the intent is clear, the success of such a concentrated investment hinges on transparent procurement processes, robust project management, and stringent anti-corruption measures. The Chairman’s assurance of continued implementation will be measured by the tangible, auditable outcomes in AMAC’s twelve wards.
In response, the Speaker of the AMAC Legislative Council, Mr. Matthew Yare, framed the budget as a “strategic roadmap” and reaffirmed the council’s constitutional role in oversight. His remarks highlighted the essential tension and collaboration inherent in democratic governance. “Our focus shall remain on ensuring that the budget is people-oriented, inclusive, realistic, and aligned with the developmental needs of all wards,” Yare stated, specifically naming infrastructure, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment as priority sectors.
This legislative scrutiny is the crucial next step. The Council’s promise of “thorough scrutiny, constructive engagement, and objective analysis” will test the budget’s line items for realism and impact. Key areas for examination will include the cost-benefit analysis of proposed projects, the sustainability of new infrastructure, and the mechanisms for community maintenance. Furthermore, with 20% of capital funds reserved for “the rest”—presumably more urbanized zones—the Council must ensure a balanced approach that does not neglect essential renewal in older settlements.
The Speaker aptly noted that “the success of any budget lies not only in its passage but in effective implementation.” This N37.9bn proposal, therefore, is merely the opening act. Its transformation into paved roads, functional clinics, and reliable water sources will require unwavering commitment from the executive, diligent oversight from the legislature, and active monitoring by civil society and residents. If successfully implemented, this budget could serve as a powerful model for inclusive, rural-first development in other area councils across Nigeria. The coming year will reveal whether this bold financial commitment translates into visible, equitable progress for all AMAC residents.
Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu
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