The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has promised that the 10th House would strengthen the security agencies as part of the efforts to tackle complex security challenges bedeviling the country.
He also stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to national security and to strengthen the capacity of the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
Abbas gave the assurance yesterday at the opening of a two-day post-inauguration retreat for members of the House Committee on Defence in Abuja.
He noted that the Green Chamber would continue to support the efforts of security agencies through adequate funding, provision of modern equipment, ramping up training, and improving the welfare packages for security personnel.
Abbas noted that this would involve a coordinated effort between the executive, legislature, and judiciary and with other stakeholders such as civil society organisations, the private sector, and the international community.
His words: “As legislators, we have a critical role in ensuring that the necessary legislative frameworks are in place to support the national security architecture.
“As we all know, the security of our nation is a collective responsibility, a
“These challenges have brought to the fore the need for a robust national security architecture that can effectively address these challenges.
“Addressing these challenges requires a combination of socioeconomic policies, effective governance, and community engagement.”
“I am confident that with the support of the National Defence College and the collective efforts of all stakeholders, we can create a functional understanding of Nigeria’s national security architecture and higher management of defence-related issues and build a more secure and prosperous future for our country.”
On his part, the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, said the retreat was designed to equip members with the necessary tools in the performance of their legislative duties.
He added that the committee would continue to interact with the defence establishment to find lasting solutions to the challenges and would leverage knowledge garnered from the retreat to improve appropriation to the defence sector within the available resources.
Benson noted: “As representatives of the people, we are concerned about these challenges because we must always answer to our constituents.
“I want to reiterate my assurance to Nigerians that we are determined to carry out our legislative functions effectively, efficiently, and in a manner that will ensure the safety of their lives and property.”
Benson said he had sponsored several bills aimed at revolutionising Nigeria’s defence sector.
