In a decisive move on Thursday, the Nigerian Senate summoned the service chiefs to address the persistent security challenges gripping the nation. The Red Chamber announced its intention to engage with the military leaders in a closed session during the plenary session. This development unfolded as lawmakers emphasized the need for a comprehensive National Security Policy document to enhance collaboration and coordination among the country’s diverse security agencies.
The Senate’s resolutions stemmed from a motion presented by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua. Yar’Adua highlighted the unprecedented security challenges facing Nigeria, including Boko Haram in the North-East, banditry and kidnapping in the North-West, armed violence in the South-East and South-South, and various other criminal activities such as armed robbery and herders/farmers clashes.
According to Yar’Adua, addressing the multifaceted security crises requires a unified effort by all security agencies working in synergy under a centralized command structure. He stressed the importance of reinforcing the interdependence and interrelatedness of Nigerian security agencies to ensure the nation’s safety.
Meanwhile, in a parallel development, the House of Representatives encountered a setback in its policy brief series aimed at redefining governance in the country. The series, known as “Sectoral debate,” is part of the House’s efforts to enhance its constitutional oversight of the executive arm. The invited Service Chiefs, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Chief of Air Staff, and the Inspector General of Police, were expected to personally present their perspectives.
However, the House of Representatives declined presentations from representatives sent by the Service Chiefs, expressing dissatisfaction with their absence. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu underscored the tradition of leaders appearing in person when invited and moved to suspend the sectoral engagement until the heads of the security agencies attend in person. House spokesman Akin Rotimi emphasized that the House unanimously agreed that presentations should be made by the heads of security agencies to address the pressing security challenges facing the nation.