The National Assembly on Saturday pledged to provide the necessary legislative backing, funding and oversight to strengthen the military and other security agencies in the fight against terrorism.

Deputy spokesperson for the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, gave the assurance at a news conference in Abuja.

Mr Agbese was reacting to the recent attack launched by terrorists against the troops of the Nigerian Army in Benisheikh, Borno, leading to the death of Brig.-Gen Oseni Braimah and others.

He acknowledged that Nigeria is currently facing complex security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crimes.

Mr Agbese assured that the legislature is determined to work closely with the executive to address the situation.

“The national assembly will stand firmly with our armed forces and all security agencies to defeat terrorists and bandits threatening the peace and unity of our country,” he said.

The deputy spokesperson commended the courage and sacrifices of troops on the front line, describing them as patriots who continued to risk their lives to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity.

He reiterated the House of Representatives’ continued prioritisation of defence and security in its legislative agenda, including ensuring adequate budgetary provisions, improving welfare for military personnel, and strengthening intelligence-gathering mechanisms.

According to him, lawmakers are also committed to ensuring robust oversight of defence spending to ensure transparency, accountability and effective utilisation of resources allocated to the sector.

The lawmaker emphasised that prioritising funding for the armed forces was vital to winning the ongoing war against insurgency and terrorism in the country.

“We understand that the government cannot afford everything at the same time, which is true.

“Nevertheless, timely release of funds for procurement of critical defence assets will go a long way in addressing threats against the country,” he said.

Mr Agbese urged Nigerians to support the armed forces by providing timely, credible information to aid security operations, noting that the fight against insecurity required collective effort.

“The battle against terrorism and banditry is not for the military alone. It requires the cooperation of all Nigerians. Citizens must remain vigilant and support security agencies with useful information,” he added.

Mr Agbese expressed optimism that, with sustained collaboration among the legislature, the executive, and security agencies, Nigeria would overcome its current security challenges and restore lasting peace in affected communities.

(NAN)