Agbese calls for improved military funding to strengthen fight against insecurity
The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has stressed that increased funding and the prompt release of appropriated resources to the military are essential to reversing Nigeria’s
The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has stressed that increased funding and the prompt release of appropriated resources to the military are essential to reversing Nigeria’s security challenges, including insurgency and other violent crimes.
Agbese made the remarks on Sunday in Abuja during an interaction with journalists, where he also commended the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, describing their approach to security operations as focused and results-oriented.
He noted that despite the dedication and resilience of the Armed Forces in confronting evolving threats across the country, operational success remains heavily dependent on consistent funding and access to modern military equipment.
“Our military is doing an extraordinary job under very demanding conditions. However, no matter how committed and professional our troops are, the reality is that military operations require consistent funding, timely releases, and access to modern equipment,” he said.
The lawmaker further observed that recent gains recorded in counter-insurgency and anti-crime operations reflect what he described as a more coordinated and deliberate strategic approach under the current defence leadership.
He said General Oluyede has introduced improved coordination and urgency within Nigeria’s defence structure, while the Army under Lieutenant General Shaibu has sustained pressure on insurgent groups through sustained ground offensives across affected regions.
Agbese said both leaders have demonstrated a clear understanding of the complexity of modern warfare, particularly the need for intelligence-driven operations and stronger synergy across the different arms of the military.
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“What we are seeing today is a leadership that is not only committed but also strategic. There is better coordination, improved morale among troops, and a clear determination to confront these threats head-on,” he said.
The Benue lawmaker added that the Armed Forces have recorded notable successes in degrading insurgent capabilities, disrupting supply chains, and reclaiming territories previously under the control of non-state actors.
He stressed, however, that sustaining and expanding these gains would depend largely on how quickly and efficiently financial resources are made available to the military.
“Appropriations alone are not enough. What matters is the speed and consistency of releases. Delays in funding can slow down operations, affect logistics, and ultimately give criminal elements the breathing space they need,” Agbese said.
He called on relevant government institutions to prioritise defence funding, describing it as an investment in national stability rather than a routine budgetary obligation.
Agbese also urged Nigerians to recognise and support the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, noting that public confidence and cooperation remain vital to the success of security operations.
“Our troops are making sacrifices daily to keep the country safe. As citizens, we must support them; not just by acknowledging their efforts, but by cooperating with security agencies and providing useful information where necessary,” he said.
The lawmaker further emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between the military and other security agencies, as well as state governments and local communities, in addressing the root causes of insecurity.
He expressed optimism that with improved funding, stronger institutional support, and continued leadership from the CDS and COAS, Nigeria can make significant progress in overcoming insurgency and restoring lasting peace.
“This is a fight we can win. With the right support, the right leadership, and a united national effort, we will see a turning point in our security landscape,” Agbese declared.
