N32.8tn Defence Spending Fails to Halt Nigeria’s Security Crisis

Nigeria has spent approximately N32.88 trillion on defence over the last 15 years, yet insecurity remains widespread, raising concerns over the effectiveness of rising military budgets.

The expenditure—equivalent to about $44.64 billion and 12.5 per cent of total national budgets within the period—has not stemmed the tide of violence, with communities still facing insurgency, banditry and kidnappings.

Since 2012, over 100,000 people have reportedly been killed, while millions have been displaced. In 2026 alone, at least 1,091 lives have been lost in just 41 days, underscoring the ongoing crisis.

The National Assembly is currently reviewing the N58.47 trillion 2026 budget proposed by President Bola Tinubu, which allocates about N5.41 trillion to defence and security.

Lawmakers have emphasised accountability and performance, insisting that increased funding must lead to tangible improvements in safety.

Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede told lawmakers that broader institutional support is essential.

“The soldiers hardly have rest because we don’t have the numbers. Recruiting more personnel comes with other challenges — housing, logistics and welfare. That is why strengthening the police and civil defence is critical,” he said.

He highlighted the need to empower agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to sustain gains made by the military.

Operations are ongoing across regions, including deployments to Benue and Plateau, while a new initiative, Operation Savannah Shield, is set to coordinate efforts in affected areas.

However, lawmakers such as Babajimi Benson warn that input-based budgeting without results is no longer acceptable.

“The defence and security sector occupies a central place in Nigeria’s development discourse… Nigerians expect results that translate into safer communities,” he said.

As the legislature works to pass the 2026 budget by March 31, attention remains on whether increased defence spending will finally deliver improved security outcomes.

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