Speaker Abbas: Nigeria needs military action backed by political will to defeat insecurity

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has said that solving Nigeria’s persistent security challenges will require more than military might — it must be backed by strong political will, justice, and sustained community engagement.

Abbas made the remark on Friday at the inauguration of new officers’ accommodation at the Niger Barracks extension and the link road to Mambilla Barracks in Abuja. The infrastructure project is part of ongoing efforts to improve welfare and living conditions for military personnel.

He noted that the country is confronting a complex security landscape, ranging from terrorism, insurgency, and banditry to kidnapping, oil theft, cyber threats, and transnational crimes.

“These evolving threats continue to test our institutions and stretch our resources.

“But Nigeria’s story is also one of resilience, adaptation, and reform, ” he said.

The Speaker emphasised that military operations alone cannot fully address the root causes of insecurity.

He called for a multi-pronged approach that includes political negotiation, grassroots participation, economic empowerment, and access to justice.

He also outlined the role of the National Assembly in supporting national defence objectives, particularly through appropriations for critical assets and reforms to include funding for advanced weapons and communication systems, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities and barracks rehabilitation and family housing.

“Through effective oversight, we’ve improved inter-agency collaboration, clarified procurement processes, and promoted accountability,” Abbas said.

He also noted the House was working on legislative measures to bolster professionalism and transparency in the security sector.

These according to him, include new laws to support joint military operations, better pension structures, and more agile logistics systems.

“We are committed to building a military that is well-equipped, professionally led, and transparently governed, a force that reflects the greatness of the nation it defends,” he added.

In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, said the newly completed facilities were more than mere infrastructure, adding that they were vital enablers of efficiency, security, and well-being for armed forces personnel.

He explained that the Niger Barracks extension would provide accommodation for key Defence Headquarters policymakers, allowing them to work in a conducive environment that supports strategic thinking.

“This project aligns with my leadership vision to nurture a professional armed forces that is people-focused, collaborative, and operationally effective in a joint environment,” Musa said.

He highlighted troop welfare as one of the central pillars of his leadership philosophy, stressing that quality of life directly affects morale and performance.

“Operational success starts with the welfare of our people. By improving living conditions, we’re investing in the strength and unity of our forces,” he stated.

General Musa also acknowledged the continued support from the National Assembly, particularly in ensuring timely budget approvals.

He praised the administration of President Bola Tinubu for prioritising the welfare, training, and operational needs of Nigeria’s troops.

“This sustained support has been pivotal in boosting morale and has contributed to the visible reduction in insecurity across the country,” he said.