The Nigerian Senate has urged the federal government to ensure that the nation’s defence budget is fully and promptly implemented, warning that delays in releasing funds could weaken efforts to tackle insecurity across the country.
During a defence budget defence session on Wednesday, Senator Ahmed Lawan, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence, emphasised the importance of timely execution of allocated defence funds.
The session featured the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, who presented the ministry’s performance review of the 2025 budget and the proposed estimates for 2026.
Lawan expressed concern that implementation of parts of the 2025 defence budget has been slow — with some provisions carried forward into the next fiscal year — and stressed that further postponements would disadvantage the nation’s security forces in their fight against criminal elements and insurgents. “Defence cannot be put on hold; any delay in implementing the defence budget gives the enemy an upper hand,” he said.
He reiterated the Senate’s commitment to providing adequate resources to the nation’s armed forces and other security agencies so they can fulfil their constitutional responsibilities effectively.
In his presentation, General Musa acknowledged the persistent security challenges facing the country but assured lawmakers that the ministry is committed to improving its operations and outcomes despite obstacles.
Senate leaders described the budget defence session as part of ongoing oversight efforts aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in how defence funds are utilised.