2025 Budget: Why FG Proposed ₦4.91 Trillion For Security, Defence – Sources

The Federal Government has highlighted the retaking of “ungoverned spaces” in northern Nigeria as a priority for 2025.

This emphasis informed the allocation of ₦4.91 trillion for security and defence in the 2025 Appropriation Bill currently before the National Assembly.

According to The Nation, a government source disclosed that while significant progress has been made in curbing banditry and degrading Boko Haram, reclaiming areas outside government control remains urgent.

“Banditry has been brought down, kidnapping has slowed down to the barest minimum, Boko Haram has been degraded.

“The next thing to do is to cover the ungoverned spaces, which is what the Lakurawa exploited to move into some parts of Kebbi and Sokoto states,” the source explained.

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has also noted that fear of cross-border terrorist attacks keeps three local government areas in his state desolate, even after Boko Haram’s defeat.

Strengthening Defence and Border Security

A substantial portion of the budget focuses on bolstering land, maritime, and airspace security.

Modernising the armed forces to counter both internal and external threats is seen as crucial for national stability.

The budget includes plans to enhance surveillance capabilities, protect critical infrastructure, and modernise police operations for better responses to security challenges.

The source said: “This budget provides the resources and direction needed to not just defend, but restore; to not just fight but to finish.

“We are reclaiming every inch of our territory, safeguarding our borders, and building a secure future for all Nigerians.”

Key Allocations for Defence Initiatives

The proposed budget outlines several significant expenditures:

– Military and Armed Forces: ₦100 billion for Operation Lafiya Dole and other missions.

– Navy: ₦514.4 million for assault boats, ₦363.4 million for reinforced NSS boats, and ₦190.3 million for T-68 M4 paintball guns.

– Army: ₦19.2 billion for Unmanned Aerial Systems, ₦23.5 billion for arms procurement, and ₦1.4 billion for establishing Forward Operating Bases.

– Air Force: ₦39.5 billion for additional payments on six T-129 attack helicopters and associated equipment.

Other planned investments include ₦315 million for a Drone and Surveillance Lab and ₦292.7 million for weapons and ammunition production tools.

Economic and Social Impact

Restoring security in volatile regions is expected to unlock access to farmlands, boost economic activities, and enhance investor confidence.

The budget also prioritises personnel welfare, modern training facilities, and advanced technology acquisition to improve morale and operational effectiveness.

The Federal Government source noted: “The ₦4.91 trillion allocation in the 2025 ‘Budget of Restoration’ represents a bold and decisive step towards addressing Nigeria’s long-standing security challenges.

“By focusing on reclaiming ungoverned spaces, securing borders, and fostering economic stability, the Federal Government is laying a foundation for a secure, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.”

President Tinubu’s Vision

Presenting the budget, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasised that security is the bedrock of national progress.

He pledged continued support for the military and police forces to safeguard every inch of Nigeria’s territory, boost food security, and rebuild communities.

“Security is the foundation of all progress.

“By restoring peace, we restore productivity, revive businesses and rebuild our communities,” Tinubu stated.