Public affairs commentator, Mahdi Shehu, has expressed concern over what he described as inadequate funding of military equipment, warning that it could endanger the lives of troops.
Shehu, in a post shared on his X handle on Monday, reacted to reports indicating that only a fraction of the Nigerian Army’s 2025 budget for security equipment has been released.
According to him, while over N20bn was approved for the procurement of equipment, about N1.7bn—representing roughly seven per cent—has so far been disbursed.
He questioned the implications of the development on the safety and effectiveness of personnel engaged in security operations.
Shehu also linked the situation to reported cases of soldiers abandoning their duty posts, suggesting that inadequate support and equipment could be contributory factors.
He further raised concerns about funds reportedly borrowed to tackle insecurity, querying how such resources were being utilised.
The commentator warned that failure to release funds earmarked for security could have far-reaching consequences, including increased vulnerability of both troops and civilians.
He added that there was a need for greater accountability and commitment from authorities to ensure the safety of lives and property across the country.
