By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure the full release of the 2024 capital allocation to the security and intelligence sector. This appeal was made during a budget defense session, where Chairman Ahmed Satomi emphasized the importance of adequate funding for national security.
Satomi expressed concern that some intelligence agencies have not received their capital allocations for 2023 and 2024, while others have received insufficient funds. He noted that despite an appreciable allocation to the security sector, the intelligence subsector remains grossly underfunded.
The committee’s concerns are rooted in the critical role intelligence agencies play in maintaining national security. Satomi stressed the need for collective efforts to ensure the security and welfare of Nigerian citizens. He emphasized that it is everyone’s duty to ensure that these agencies are adequately equipped to discharge their mandates responsibly and accountably.
The 2025 budget, dubbed the “Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity,” allocates N4.91 trillion to the Defence and Security sector. However, the intelligence subsector’s allocation of N595 billion is considered insufficient, with N274.5 billion allocated for capital expenditure, N107.9 billion for overheads, and N212.5 billion for personnel costs.
Satomi highlighted the importance of deradicalization, disarmament, rehabilitation, and reintegration programs in securing peace. He emphasized that these initiatives require adequate funding, which is currently lacking. The committee chairman appealed to President Tinubu to intervene and direct the Minister of Finance to prioritize the full release of outstanding 2024 budget allocations to intelligence agencies.
The National Centre for Counter Terrorism, National Institute for Security Studies, and National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons are among the agencies affected by the funding shortfall. Satomi noted that these agencies play a vital role in countering violent extremism, terrorism, and maintaining national security.
In his response, Permanent Secretary Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma assured that the proposed budget is tailored to address evolving security challenges. He emphasized the importance of coordination, collaboration, and capacity building in enhancing national security.
The committee’s appeal to President Tinubu reflects the National Assembly’s commitment to enhancing national security and promoting citizens’ well-being. The allocation of funds to intelligence agencies will be crucial in achieving these objectives.
