Shehu Sani, the former Senator representing Kaduna Central has warned that the N3.2 trillion budgeted for security in 2024 should not be misused or mismanaged as the welfare of the Nigerian Army is neglected.
Mr. Sani, speaking on Thursday, stated that the security budget should not be wasted on building hotels and shopping malls.
“The N3.2 trillion budgeted for security in 2024 should be mindful of this. Defense and security budgets should not be wasted on building Event centers, Hotels, and Shopping malls while terrorists are killing people every day in the country.”
Mr. Sani asserted that the Nigerian soldiers are demoralized and have been neglected at the front lines.
“In the past, trillions were budgeted for defense and security but ended up being looted and many soldiers complained of a lack of food, weapons, and equipment, and their welfare was generally neglected.”
In October 2023, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Taoreed Lagbaja, a lieutenant general, ordered an investigation into allegations of poor feeding of frontline troops in the North-east Theatre of operations.
In a statement, the Director of Army Public Relations, Onyema Nwachukwu said that the welfare of troops has been given premium by the present leadership of the Nigerian Army and was one of the vital pillars of the COAS Command Philosophy targeted at motivating the force.
”The Nigerian army therefore takes these allegations very seriously and COAS has directed immediate investigation into the complaints to ascertain its veracity and unravel the circumstances.”
“We, however, acknowledge that there may be isolated incidents where lapses occur, and we are determined to squarely address them.
“An internal investigation has already been initiated to ascertain the truth behind these allegations.
”We will thoroughly examine the supply chain, the quality of food provided, and any other factors that may have contributed to this situation.”
