The House of Representatives has initiated moves to establish a Security and Intelligence Trust Fund aimed at addressing the growing security challenges in Nigeria. Naija247news reports that the proposed fund, which is expected to provide additional resources for security agencies, was introduced as a bill during a plenary session on Tuesday.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to Naija247news, the bill, sponsored by Hon. Ahmed Jaha, seeks to create a dedicated funding mechanism for the procurement of equipment, training, and other operational needs of security and intelligence agencies. “The current security situation in Nigeria requires urgent and innovative solutions. This trust fund will ensure that our security agencies have the resources they need to protect lives and property,” Jaha stated.
Naija247news gathered that the proposed fund will be financed through contributions from the federal government, state governments, and the private sector. The bill also includes provisions for transparency and accountability, with a board of trustees to oversee the management of the fund.
Naija247news understands that the move comes amid rising concerns about insecurity in Nigeria, with incidents of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping on the increase. According to Naija247news, security experts have long called for increased funding and support for security agencies to enable them to effectively tackle these challenges.
The proposed Security and Intelligence Trust Fund has been welcomed by stakeholders, who see it as a step in the right direction. “This is a much-needed initiative. Our security agencies are overstretched and underfunded. This fund will go a long way in addressing these challenges,” said a security analyst who spoke to Naija247news.
According to Naija247news, the bill has been referred to the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence for further scrutiny and public hearings. The committee is expected to engage with stakeholders, including security agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector, to ensure that the fund meets the needs of all Nigerians.
Naija247news reports that the proposed fund is part of a broader effort by the House of Representatives to address the security challenges facing the country. Other initiatives include the establishment of state police and the review of the country’s security architecture.
As the bill moves through the legislative process, Naija247news gathered that there is growing optimism about its potential to make a significant impact on Nigeria’s security situation. “This is a bold and timely initiative. We hope that it will receive the support it deserves and be implemented without delay,” said a resident of Abuja.
