The House of Representatives Committee on Defence says it will ensure the effective utilisation of resources allocated to military colleges and institutions.

The institutions are the Nigerian Defence Academy, Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria and the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji.

The chairman of the committee, Babajimi Benson, said this on Monday in Kaduna on the sidelines of an oversight visit to the institutes as the 2025 budget cycle approaches.

He said that funds allocated to the institutes must add value in upgrading training facilities, procurement of advanced equipment, and research and development initiatives.

Mr Benson underscored the imperative of the agencies to uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability in their operations.

According to him, the National Assembly will provide sound legislation to strengthen Nigeria’s defence sector by ensuring the effective utilisation of funds.

He said the visit was an important part of the process and expressed readiness to work closely to ensure that armed forces were fully equipped to face the challenges ahead.

According to Mr Benson, the committee will ensure support to the institutes through responsible budgetary allocations and enabling policies, adding that the lawmakers, through effective legislative oversight, would hold them accountable to the people.

While calling for continuous cooperation, open communication and transparent reporting, Mr Benson urged the institutions to engage the committee constantly.

He stated that such a partnership would address challenges as they arise, ensure timely funding, and identify areas that need quick intervention.

“Together, we can ensure that Nigeria’s defence institutions remain at the cutting edge of military training, manufacturing and strategic leadership,” he said.

(NAN)