Senate Demands Swift Defence Budget Execution Amid Security Crisis
The Nigerian Senate has issued a strong call for the full and timely implementation of allocations designated for the defence sector, cautioning that any delay could significantly weaken the nation's ongoing fight against escalating insecurity. This urgent appeal was made during a crucial budget defence session held on Wednesday, where the Minister of Defence presented a comprehensive review of the ministry's 2025 performance and outlined the proposed budget for the 2026 fiscal year before the assembled lawmakers.
Commitment to Adequate Funding
Senator Ahmed Lawan, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence, emphasized the National Assembly's unwavering commitment to ensuring that the armed forces receive adequate funding to effectively carry out their constitutional responsibilities. "We are ready on our part to ensure that the armed forces receive the resources they require," Lawan declared. However, he expressed profound dissatisfaction with the sluggish pace of implementing the 2025 defence budget, raising critical questions about future planning.
"The implementation has been slow. If we are unable to fully execute the 2025 budget, how do we effectively plan for 2026?" he queried, highlighting a fundamental concern regarding fiscal discipline and strategic foresight.
Urgency of Defence Spending
Lawan stressed that defence funding cannot be treated with the same flexibility as allocations to other sectors, where delays might not yield immediate, dire consequences. "You cannot postpone defence spending. Any delay gives an advantage to those threatening our security. We must insist that funds meant for our armed forces and security agencies are fully implemented to protect Nigerians," he stated unequivocally. He further elaborated that providing essential weapons, equipment, and logistical support must go hand in hand with ensuring that approved funds are both released promptly and utilized properly for maximum operational impact.
Oversight and Accountability
The committee chairman described the session as an integral component of the Senate's oversight responsibility, noting that lawmakers were meticulously reviewing specific areas of the 2025 budget that were not fully implemented and have consequently been carried forward into the 2026 proposal. "We need to examine what has happened and ensure better performance going forward," he asserted, reaffirming the Senate's steadfast commitment to accountability and transparency in all matters pertaining to defence expenditure.
Minister's Assurance
In his formal presentation to the committee, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, acknowledged the persistent security challenges facing the nation but assured lawmakers of the ministry's resolute determination to improve outcomes. "Challenges are still there, but we are determined to do better," Musa affirmed, signaling a collaborative approach between the executive and legislative arms in addressing the nation's security imperatives.
