Nigeria’s security challenges require a multi-faceted approach, combining military action, political will, and justice, according to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.
Abbas made this statement during the inauguration of officers’ accommodation at Niger Barracks extension and Link Road in Mambilla Barracks, Abuja. He acknowledged the complex threats Nigeria has faced in recent years, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft, piracy, cyber threats, and transnational organized crime. These challenges have evolved rapidly, testing the nation’s institutions and stretching its resources.
However, Abbas emphasized that Nigeria’s story is not only about threats, but also about resilience, adaptation, and reform. He stressed that addressing security challenges requires cooperation between the government and society, with military action complemented by political negotiations, community participation, economic empowerment, and justice.
The National Assembly has supported appropriations for critical platforms, ammunitions, communications systems, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. Additionally, the assembly has ensured accountability, value for money, and timely delivery of force protection assets. Funding has also been approved for barracks rehabilitation, family housing, healthcare, mental health support, and post-service transition programs.
The House of Representatives has promoted better inter-agency collaboration, clarified procurement processes, and drawn lessons from past experiences through effective oversight. Abbas also highlighted legislative proposals aimed at deepening professionalism and accountability within the security sector, including strengthening the legal framework for joint operations and improving the welfare and pension systems for serving personnel and veterans.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, noted that the newly constructed buildings and link road were designed to support efficiency, safety, and comfort of officers. He emphasized that the project aligns with his leadership philosophy, which prioritizes troops’ welfare and aims to nurture a professional armed forces that is people-centric, collaborative, and capable of meeting its constitutional responsibilities.
Musa acknowledged the support of the National Assembly through timely budgetary approvals and praised the President Bola Tinubu administration’s commitment to the welfare, training, and operational needs of troops. He attributed the visible reduction of insecurity across the nation to this support, which has boosted morale and motivation among troops.
The inauguration of the officers’ accommodation and link road marks a significant step towards addressing Nigeria’s security challenges and improving the welfare of its armed forces. As the country continues to face complex threats, the cooperation between the government and society, as well as the commitment to military action, political will, and justice, will be crucial in achieving peace and stability.