The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the Federal Government’s 2026 budget proposal, calling it a budget built on quicksand and a sign of deep fiscal recklessness. The opposition party issued its warning after reviewing the spending plan presented to the National Assembly.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC argued that the budget lacks credible revenue plans and relies heavily on massive borrowing. The party said the document, which projects a huge deficit, essentially turns the nation’s budget into a debt trap instead of a tool for growth.
Abdullahi said the government claims it will spend ₦25.68 trillion on capital projects while planning a ₦23.85 trillion deficit, meaning most of the projects depend on high‑interest debt for funding. The ADC noted that this borrowing strategy will saddle future generations with overwhelming financial obligations before they enter the workforce.
The party also said the budget repeats errors from the 2024 and 2025 appropriations, which it described as unrealistic and poorly executed. It warned that unless the government embraces fiscal discipline, the country will face persistent instability and rising debt servicing costs. The ADC highlighted that debt servicing could jump from ₦12.63 trillion in 2024 to an estimated ₦15.52 trillion in 2026, further crowding out funding for essential services.
The opposition group urged a rethink of the budget framework to prioritise fiscal responsibility, revenue credibility, and transparent spending. It said a drastic shift is necessary to prevent continued economic hardship for Nigerians and to build a more sustainable fiscal future.
The federal government has not yet responded to the ADC’s criticism.
