The House of Representatives Committee on Defence has called for stricter accountability, performance-driven spending and a comprehensive security strategy in the consideration of the 2026 defence budget.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Babajimi Benson, made the call on Monday in Abuja at the commencement of the 2026 budget defence session with the Ministry of Defence and agencies under the committee’s jurisdiction.
Benson described the annual budget defence exercise as a “sacred constitutional trust” and a critical stage in the appropriation process, noting that it provides a platform for rigorous scrutiny and mutual accountability in the interest of national security.
“This statutory annual exercise remains a sacred constitutional trust bestowed upon us by the Nigerian people,” he said. “It is one of the most critical stages of the legislative appropriation process, as it provides the platform for rigorous scrutiny, constructive engagement and mutual accountability.”
He acknowledged the efforts of the Armed Forces and security agencies in confronting insurgency, terrorism and other forms of criminality across the country, commending their sacrifices under difficult operational conditions.
“We acknowledge the considerable gains made by our gallant Armed Forces and security agencies in degrading terrorist strongholds and confronting criminality across various theatres of operation,” Benson stated.
However, the lawmaker noted that the persistence of security challenges highlighted the need for deeper institutional reforms, better coordination and smarter use of limited resources.
“Increased allocations must be matched with measurable outcomes, value for money and strict adherence to principles of transparency and accountability,” he said, adding that “the era of input-focused budgeting without commensurate impact is no longer acceptable.”
Benson stressed that while military operations remain essential, Nigeria’s contemporary security challenges require more than kinetic responses. He advocated a “whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach” that balances military action with non-kinetic interventions.
