The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has sharply criticised the federal government after revelations that only about seven percent of the Nigerian Army’s equipment budget was released in 2025. Of the N336.76 billion approved for security equipment, a mere N16.71 billion has been disbursed, with no allocation for critical logistics such as transport, aircraft fuel and military barracks. In a statement signed by spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC called this situation unacceptable, especially given the persistent insecurity across the country.
The party accused the government of prioritising the presidential air fleet while military aircraft remain grounded due to insufficient funding, describing it as “an unpardonable misplacement of priority.” It linked the poor funding to worsening insecurity, arguing that it weakens the military and emboldens armed groups. The ADC cited the recent abduction of over 400 women and children in Ngoshe, Borno State, where Boko Haram allegedly demanded a N5 billion ransom within 72 hours.
“The African Democratic Congress is appalled by recent reports that only about 7 percent of the Nigerian Army’s budget for security equipment has been released in the 2025 fiscal year,” the statement read. “Out of the N336.76 billion approved, only a paltry N16.71 billion has reportedly been disbursed, while nothing has been released for critical logistics such as transport, aircraft fuel, and military barracks.”
The party warned that underfunding security operations leads to predictable consequences: a weakened security system. It also criticised government priorities, noting that while the military struggles with chronic underfunding, the federal government has reportedly ensured full funding for the luxurious presidential air fleet. The ADC stressed that failure to properly fund the military represents both a budgeting and a leadership failure.
In addition, the ADC highlighted how insecurity continues to affect daily life, leaving communities exposed, farmers unable to work and businesses operating in fear. It called on the government to urgently improve funding for security and to ensure the safe return of those abducted. The party urged federal authorities to demonstrate a genuine commitment to addressing the nation’s security challenges, warning that continued neglect will only deepen the crisis and further endanger Nigerian lives.
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