𝗦𝗲𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗧𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗯𝘂’𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗯𝘂𝗱𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵, 𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴

The Nigerian Senate has raised concerns over the adequacy of the Federal Government’s current security budget, warning that the existing funding structure may be insufficient to effectively tackle the country’s persistent security challenges.

During a plenary session, lawmakers reviewed allocations to the nation’s security agencies and expressed worries that the envelope budgeting system being used does not reflect the realities on the ground. Senators noted that rising threats such as banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and communal clashes require stronger financial commitment and more flexible funding mechanisms.

Several senators argued that security agencies are overstretched and lack the modern equipment, intelligence infrastructure, and logistical support needed to respond swiftly to threats across different regions. They stressed that without increased investment, ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability could face serious setbacks.

The Senate also called for improved oversight and accountability to ensure that funds released for security operations are properly utilised. Lawmakers suggested that future budgets should prioritise intelligence gathering, technology-driven policing, and welfare packages for personnel, noting that morale among security operatives plays a crucial role in national safety.

While acknowledging steps already taken by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to strengthen security operations, the Senate maintained that more funding and reforms are necessary to address what it described as “deep-rooted and evolving security crises.”

The upper chamber pledged to continue engaging the executive arm of government to review the budgetary framework and consider supplementary allocations where necessary, as part of broader efforts to enhance national security and protect citizens across the country.