Strong indications came to the fore at the weekend on the security priority of the Federal Government next year.
It was gathered that retaking ‘ungoverned spaces’ in many parts of the North will be given a prime place, which necessitated the proposed N4.91 trillion for security and defence in the 2025 Appropriation Bill before the National Assembly.
“Banditry has been brought down, kidnapping has slowed down to the barest minimum, Boko Haram has been degraded.
“The next thing to do is to cover the ungoverned spaces, which is what the Lakurawa exploited to move into some parts of Kebbi and Sokoto states,” a Federal Government source said at the weekend.
The source explained that the budget prioritises the urgent need to “retake all the territories outside government control,” stating that securing these areas is critical to restoring governance, stability, and economic activities in parts of the country previously deemed inaccessible.
Despite degrading Boko Haram, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum said three local government areas in his state remain desolate and unoccupied because of the fear of terrorist attacks from across the border with Chad.
A significant focus of the allocation is the safeguarding of Nigeria’s land, maritime borders and airspace.
The government plans to enhance surveillance and protection in these areas to provide economic and security stability.
Strengthening the nation’s defence architecture, the source said, “will deter external aggression and counter internal threats, ensuring that the country remains secure and united.”
The budget recognised the need to modernise the Police to respond to persistent internal security challenges.
The enhanced funding will support the acquisition of advanced equipment, improved intelligence operations, and community-driven policing strategies to reinforce peace and stability.
The source said: “This budget provides the resources and direction needed to not just defend, but restore; to not just fight but to finish.
“We are reclaiming every inch of our territory, safeguarding our borders, and building a secure future for all Nigerians.”
Restoring peace in volatile regions is expected to unlock access to farmlands, markets, and industries, driving trade, job creation, and poverty alleviation.
Securing critical infrastructure, such as transport routes, transmission lines, industrial hubs, and energy facilities is another key priority to boost investor confidence and promote innovation.
The budget estimates detail comprehensive funding for military, naval, air force, and police operations needed to combat modern challenges. Operation Lafiya Dole and Other Armed Forces Operations will receive N100 billion.
The construction of a Drone and Surveillance Lab has been pencilled down for N315 million; procurement of raw materials for weapons and ammunition production, N295.8 million; and the procurement of tools for weapons and ammunition lines, N292.7 million.
To help achieve the strategic objective of the N4.9 trillion budgetary plan, the Navy is proposed to receive N514.4 million for the supply of 80 flat-bottom assault boats (Phase 2), N363.4 million for the supply of 30-man NSS boats with reinforced gun points and N190.3 million for the procurement of T-68 M4 paintball guns.
The Army will receive N19.2 billion for Unmanned Aerial Systems and Ground Stations; N14.4 billion for the Procurement of EQ Series 4×4 Multifunctional Vehicles and Camel MRAPs; N23.5 billion for the Procurement of Arms (All Types); N22.2 billion for the Procurement of Ammunition (All Types) and N1.4 billion for the establishment of Forward Operating Bases (FOBs).
The Air Force has been promised N39.5 billion for additional payment for Six T-129 attack helicopters, weapons, and spares.
The budget prioritises the welfare, training, and modernisation of Nigeria’s security personnel. It emphasises the acquisition of cutting-edge military hardware and surveillance technology, upgrading training facilities to meet global standards, and improving personnel welfare to enhance morale and operational efficiency.
The Federal Government source noted: “The N4.91 trillion allocation in the 2025 ‘Budget of Restoration’ represents a bold and decisive step towards addressing Nigeria’s long-standing security challenges.
“By focusing on reclaiming ungoverned spaces, securing borders, and fostering economic stability, the Federal Government is laying a foundation for a secure, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.”
During the laying of the Appropriation Bill before the Federal Lawmakers on Wednesday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said security/defence was getting the highest sectoral allocation because of the need to ensure the full return of farmers to work to enhance food security.
President Tinubu said: “Security is the foundation of all progress.
“We have significantly increased funding for the military, paramilitary, and police forces to secure the nation, protect our borders, and consolidate government control over every inch of our national territory.
“The government will continue to provide our security forces with the modern tools and technology they need to keep us safe.
“Boosting the morale of our men and women in the armed forces will remain our government’s top priority.
“The officers, men, and women of our Armed Forces and the Nigerian Police Force are the shields and protectors of our nation.
“Our administration will continue to empower them to defeat insurgency, banditry, and all threats to our sovereignty.
“Our people should never live in fear – whether on their farmlands, highways or cities.
“By restoring peace, we restore productivity, revive businesses and rebuild our communities.”
