Movement for the Transformation of Nigeria (MOTiON), a coalition of over 50 social movement groups, has urged the federal government to strengthen the measures to combat terrorism and banditry in the country.

Convener of the coalition, Hauwa Mustapha, who stated this in a statement in Abuja on Monday, also called on government to address the root causes of violence in the country through dialogue and reconciliation.

Ms Mustapha decried the security challenge currently confronting the country as well as the economic situation.

She also urged the National Assembly to ensure that the 2025 budget reflects the needs of the masses.

According to her, the national assembly must review the budget proposal, eliminate unnecessary expenditures, block financial mismanagement and redirect resources to sustainable solutions.

“The national assembly must ensure the budget reflects and prioritises the welfare of the masses, particularly those mostly affected by IMF/World Bank austerity measures, not a privileged few.

“The 96.75 per cent rise in debt servicing further strains the government’s ability to invest in critical sectors,” she said.

Ms Mustapha said that in spite of the urgent need for investment in human capital, allocations to health, education and agriculture remain below African Union recommendations (15 per cent for health, 20 per cent for education and 10 per cent for agriculture).

She warned that if the situation was not addressed, millions of Nigerians might be marginalised.

MOTiON is a coalition of Nigerians, comprising pro-democracy groups, workers’ unions, women groups, citizens’ groups, NGOs, academics, students and climate action groups, among others.

(NAN)