Details have emerged on why the Federal Government has proposed a whopping N4.91 trillion for security and defence in the 2025 Appropriation Bill.

According to a Federal Government source, the primary focus of the allocation is to retake “ungoverned spaces” in many parts of the North, which have been exploited by terrorist groups and bandits.

The source explained that despite significant progress in degrading Boko Haram, kidnapping, and banditry, there is still a need to secure territories outside government control.

The source stated that the budget prioritizes the urgent need to “retake all the territories outside government control,” which is critical to restoring governance, stability, and economic activities in parts of the country previously deemed inaccessible.

A significant focus of the allocation is the safeguarding of Nigeria’s land, maritime borders, and airspace. The government plans to enhance surveillance and protection in these areas to provide economic and security stability. Securing critical infrastructure, such as transport routes, transmission lines, industrial hubs, and energy facilities, is another key priority to boost investor confidence and promote innovation.

The budget recognizes the need to modernize the Police to respond to persistent internal security challenges. The enhanced funding will support the acquisition of advanced equipment, improved intelligence operations, and community-driven policing strategies to reinforce peace and stability.

The Army, Navy, and Air Force will also receive significant allocations for modern equipment, training, and operations. The budget estimates detail comprehensive funding for military, naval, air force, and police operations needed to combat modern challenges.

The budget prioritizes the welfare, training, and modernization of Nigeria’s security personnel. It emphasizes the acquisition of cutting-edge military hardware and surveillance technology, upgrading training facilities to meet global standards, and improving personnel welfare to enhance morale and operational efficiency.

“This budget provides the resources and direction needed to not just defend, but restore; to not just fight but to finish.

“We are reclaiming every inch of our territory, safeguarding our borders, and building a secure future for all Nigerians,” the source added.

The 2025 budget outlines significant allocations for security and defence projects. The construction of a Drone and Surveillance Lab is planned at a cost of N315 million, while N295.8 million is allocated for the procurement of raw materials for weapons and ammunition production, and N292.7 million for tools required for the production lines. To support the Navy, N514.4 million is proposed for the supply of 80 flat-bottom assault boats under Phase 2, N363.4 million for 30-man NSS boats with reinforced gun points, and N190.3 million for the procurement of T-68 M4 paintball guns.

The Army will receive N19.2 billion for Unmanned Aerial Systems and Ground Stations, N14.4 billion for the procurement of EQ Series 4×4 Multifunctional Vehicles and Camel MRAPs, N23.5 billion for the procurement of all types of arms, N22.2 billion for all types of ammunition, and N1.4 billion for the establishment of Forward Operating Bases (FOBs). The Air Force is allocated N39.5 billion for additional payments for six T-129 attack helicopters, weapons, and spare parts.