In a dramatic appeal to the House of Representatives, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, declared that an additional 50 Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) could end the scourge of banditry within just two months. Speaking during the 2025 budget defense session in Abuja on Tuesday, Badaru emphasized the urgent need for increased funding for military operations.
“We were only able to provide 20 APCs with the resources allocated in 2024,” the minister lamented. “What can 20 APCs do? If we secure 50 more APCs, we can deploy them into the bush and flush out these criminals. I assure you, within two months, the issue of banditry will be over.”
Inadequate Funding Hindering Progress
Badaru’s plea comes against the backdrop of escalating insecurity in several parts of the country, with banditry and insurgency continuing to threaten lives and livelihoods. The Defence Ministry’s budget for 2025, according to Badaru, does not account for the procurement of additional APCs.
He urged the National Assembly to adjust the budget, highlighting the critical role enhanced military equipment plays in combating crime. “I believe this House will consider more funding to the Ministry of Defence so that we can respond effectively to fresh areas of attacks,” Badaru said.
N20 Billion Needed for Soldiers’ Welfare
The minister also pointed out the pressing need to address the welfare of military personnel. He revealed that a staggering N20 billion is required to settle the backlog of the Group Life Insurance scheme for soldiers, as well as to pay outstanding entitlements for troops in combat zones.
“We cannot ignore the sacrifices of our soldiers. They are putting their lives on the line daily, and it is our duty to ensure their welfare is not compromised,” he stressed.
House of Representatives Pledges Support
In response to the minister’s call, the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Representative Benson Babajimi (APC-Lagos), assured that the committee would consider the request. Babajimi reaffirmed the House’s commitment to supporting the armed forces in their fight against insecurity.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria have demonstrated remarkable professionalism and commitment in countering insurgency, terrorism, and banditry,” Babajimi noted. “This year’s budget defense is not just a legislative exercise but a reaffirmation of our collective responsibility to the Nigerian people.”
Babajimi emphasized the need for prudent utilization of resources allocated to the defense sector, noting that enhanced funding must translate to tangible results. “It is our duty to ensure that every naira is judiciously spent to strengthen the operational capacity of the Armed Forces,” he added.
Insecurity Challenges Persist
Despite increased budgetary allocations in recent years, insecurity remains a significant challenge in Nigeria. Banditry, insurgency, and terrorism continue to plague communities across the country, displacing thousands and disrupting economic activities.
Analysts believe that the minister’s proposal to acquire additional APCs could bolster the military’s efforts, but they caution that addressing insecurity requires a multi-faceted approach.
“We cannot solely rely on equipment,” noted security expert Adebayo Kolade. “While APCs are critical, there is also a need to improve intelligence gathering, strengthen community policing, and address the socio-economic conditions that drive criminal activities.”
Budget Oversight and Accountability
Representative Babajimi highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in the defense sector, stressing that enhanced funding must be matched with measurable outcomes.
“National Assembly has consistently prioritized the defense sector, but with increased resources comes heightened expectations,” he said. “We must leverage intelligence, technology, and best practices to neutralize emerging threats and safeguard our citizens.”
The chairman urged defense agencies to prioritize strategic initiatives aligned with national security objectives. He also called for greater inter-agency collaboration to tackle the evolving security landscape effectively.
A Race Against Time
The urgency of the Defence Ministry’s request reflects the dire state of security in Nigeria. Communities in affected regions have repeatedly called for swift government action to end banditry and restore peace.
For now, the spotlight remains on the House of Representatives and their decision regarding the 2025 budget. Whether the requested 50 APCs will be provided—and if they can indeed end banditry within two months—remains to be seen.
