The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has urged the Federal Government to prioritise improved funding and prompt release of resources to the military as part of efforts to address insecurity in the country.
Agbese made the call on Monday while speaking with journalists in Abuja, stressing that adequate funding remains critical to sustaining operations against insurgency and other security threats.
He commended the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, for what he described as a focused and result-oriented approach in confronting security challenges.
According to him, although the Armed Forces have demonstrated resilience in tackling evolving threats, their effectiveness is largely dependent on sufficient and timely funding.
“Our military is doing an extraordinary job under difficult conditions, but operations of this scale require consistent funding, timely releases and access to modern equipment,” he said.
Agbese noted that recent gains recorded across various theatres of operation reflected improved coordination, enhanced troop morale and a clear strategic direction under the current military leadership.
He added that the Armed Forces had made progress in degrading insurgent capabilities, disrupting logistics networks and reclaiming territories previously controlled by non-state actors.
The lawmaker, however, warned that such gains could be reversed if funding delays persist.
“Budgetary provisions alone are not enough. The speed and consistency of fund releases are crucial. Any delay can hinder operations and give criminal elements room to regroup,” he stated.
He called on relevant government institutions to treat defence funding as a priority, describing it as essential to national stability.
Agbese also urged Nigerians to support security agencies through cooperation and timely sharing of intelligence, expressing optimism that sustained funding and collective effort would significantly improve the country’s security situation.
