The Federal Government of Nigeria has prioritised reclaiming “ungoverned spaces” in northern Nigeria as a critical focus in the 2025 fiscal year.
To address this, ₦4.91 trillion has been allocated for security and defence in the 2025 Appropriation Bill, reflecting its commitment to tackling persistent security challenges and ensuring national stability.
Key Objectives of the Security Budget:
- Reclaiming Ungoverned Spaces:
Efforts are aimed at areas exploited by groups like the Lakurawa to destabilise regions, particularly parts of Kebbi and Sokoto states. - Strengthening Defence Capabilities:
Investments will modernise the armed forces across land, air, and maritime domains to combat internal threats like banditry and external vulnerabilities. - Surveillance and Infrastructure Protection:
Enhancing surveillance technology and securing critical infrastructure to safeguard against future threats. - Personnel Welfare and Advanced Training:
Provisions for better training, improved welfare for security personnel, and state-of-the-art technology acquisition to enhance operational efficiency.
Major Allocations in the Defence Budget:
- Navy: ₦514.4 million for assault boats and other maritime equipment.
- Army: ₦23.5 billion for arms procurement and ₦19.2 billion for unmanned aerial systems.
- Air Force: ₦39.5 billion for six T-129 attack helicopters and related equipment.
- Other Projects: ₦315 million for a drone and surveillance lab, alongside investments in weapons and ammunition production tools.
Broader Economic and Social Impact:
The strategy to secure ungoverned regions is expected to:
- Unlock access to farmlands, bolstering food production.
- Boost economic activities by restoring stability.
- Improve investor confidence in previously volatile regions.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Vision:
President Tinubu underscored that security is essential for Nigeria’s progress, pledging continued support for the military and police forces.
He emphasised the importance of restoring peace to revive businesses, rebuild communities, and ensure food security.
The ₦4.91 trillion security budget reflects a decisive approach to addressing Nigeria’s long-standing challenges while laying the groundwork for a peaceful and prosperous future.