The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has proposed the withdrawal of $5 billion from Nigeria’s external reserves to support an extraordinary security intervention against terrorism and banditry.
The caucus also urged President Bola Tinubu to intensify security operations and strengthen efforts to protect communities affected by attacks, killings and abductions in parts of Northern Nigeria.
The lawmakers made the proposals in a statement issued in Abuja and signed by the Leader of the Minority Caucus, Mr Fredrick Agbedi, and the Minority Caucus Spokesperson, Mr Afam Victor Ogene.
The caucus expressed concern over reported attacks in Plateau, Niger, Sokoto, Kaduna and Katsina states, saying “the situation required a sustained and coordinated security response.”
It urged the President to direct security agencies to intensify intelligence-led operations against terrorist and bandit groups, including efforts to disrupt their operational bases, supply routes and communications.
The lawmakers cited reported attacks in several communities, including Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, where they said “more than 20 people were killed in recent attacks.”
In Niger State, the caucus said “armed men attacked communities in Borgu Local Government Area and abducted more than 60 worshippers during Friday prayers.”
It cited reported attacks in Ungushi community in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State and Naridon village in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where it said several residents were killed.
The caucus further expressed concern over reported attacks and reprisals in Katsina State, as well as schoolchildren in Borno State who, according to the lawmakers, “have remained missing months after their abduction.”
The lawmakers said “the security situation required more than statements of condemnation after attacks,” calling for sustained operations based on intelligence and improved coordination among security agencies.
They urged the President to replicate and expand strategies that have resulted in the rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in different parts of the country.
Sustained efforts
The caucus called for affected areas to receive sustained security operations, with security agencies working to deny criminal groups access to forests, hideouts and other operational areas.
It stressed that such operations should be targeted at criminal elements and should protect innocent civilians.
The lawmakers also urged President Tinubu to visit Zamfara State and engage directly with communities affected by insecurity.
On funding, the Minority Caucus proposed that the Nigerian Government consider drawing $5 billion from the country’s external reserves for what it described as an extraordinary national security intervention.
The caucus argued that additional resources were necessary to strengthen the country’s response to insecurity and protect the lives and livelihoods of citizens.
The lawmakers also welcomed the recent increase in the salaries of members of the Armed Forces, describing it as “a measure that could improve the welfare and morale of personnel.”
They, however, urged the President to forward the necessary amendment to the 2026 Appropriation Act and a Supplementary Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly to facilitate implementation of the salary increase.
The caucus said “the National Assembly should be prepared to reconvene, if necessary, to consider the measures and ensure that the salary adjustment was implemented without undue delay.”
The lawmakers said the proposed security measures and additional funding were necessary to strengthen the country’s capacity to respond to terrorism, banditry and other security threats.
They urged the President to use the constitutional powers of his office and available security resources to protect citizens and restore confidence in affected communities.
