The Federal Government has earmarked a total of ₦3.15 trillion for the Ministry of Defence in the 2026 Appropriation Bill, underscoring its continued focus on national security, military welfare, and defence infrastructure.
Details obtained from the Budget Office of the Federation show that the allocation covers personnel costs, overheads, and capital expenditure across the Armed Forces and other defence-related institutions.
A breakdown of the figures indicates that personnel costs account for ₦2.39 trillion, representing the largest share of the budget, while overhead costs stand at ₦297.03 billion and capital expenditure at ₦464.47 billion.
Army Tops Allocation
The Nigerian Army received the highest allocation among the services, with a total of ₦1.50 trillion, comprising ₦1.25 trillion for personnel, ₦81.9 billion for overhead, and ₦167.7 billion for capital projects.
The Nigerian Navy was allocated ₦443.9 billion, while the Nigerian Air Force received ₦409.1 billion, reflecting sustained investment in maritime and aerial security amid growing security challenges.
Defence Headquarters, Intelligence, Training Institutions
The Defence Headquarters and related formations were allocated ₦257 billion, while the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) received ₦68.7 billion for operations and capital development.
Several training and academic institutions also featured prominently in the budget. The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) was allocated ₦40.4 billion, the Command and Staff College, Jaji, ₦35.8 billion, and the National Defence College, ₦29.2 billion.
Space, Research, and Defence Industry
In line with emerging security trends, the Defence Space Administration received ₦40.02 billion, while the Defence Space School, Orogun, was allocated ₦10.97 billion. The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) got ₦7.65 billion, aimed at boosting local arms production and defence manufacturing.
The Defence Research and Development Bureau received ₦9.34 billion, reflecting efforts to strengthen innovation and indigenous military technology.
Pensions and Welfare
Provision was also made for military pensions and welfare. The Military Pension Board was allocated ₦1.39 billion, while ₦1.4 billion was earmarked for the Defence Intelligence Agency Civilian Pensions Board.
Focus on Security
Analysts say the heavy emphasis on personnel costs highlights government’s priority on troop welfare and operational readiness, even as capital spending targets equipment, infrastructure, training, and emerging domains such as space and intelligence.
The 2026 defence allocation comes amid ongoing security operations across the country, including counterinsurgency efforts, anti-banditry operations, and the protection of strategic national assets.
