Senate Vows to End Banditry, Insecurity in 2026, Eyes Increased Military Funding

The Senate has assured Nigerians that the persistent challenges of armed banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and violent attacks across the country will be decisively addressed in 2026.

The assurance was given on Tuesday during plenary, as lawmakers pledged to review the 2026 Appropriation Bill with the aim of strengthening funding for the nation’s security architecture, particularly the Armed Forces.

Senate leaders expressed deep concern over the continued loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of communities caused by criminal activities, stressing that the situation demands urgent and coordinated legislative action.

According to the Senate, ending insecurity remains a top priority, adding that adequate funding, improved welfare for security personnel, and enhanced operational capacity are critical to winning the fight against banditry and insurgency.

“The Senate is determined to ensure that insecurity is brought to an end this year. We will thoroughly examine the 2026 budget to guarantee that the military and other security agencies are sufficiently funded to carry out their constitutional responsibilities,” a lawmaker said during the session.

Lawmakers noted that years of underfunding and overstretched security forces have hampered effective responses to criminal elements, particularly in parts of the North-West, North-East, and other flashpoints across the country.

The Senate also pledged closer oversight of how security funds are utilised, insisting that transparency and accountability must accompany any increase in budgetary allocations.

In addition to military funding, senators called for improved intelligence gathering, better inter-agency collaboration, and stronger community engagement to tackle the root causes of insecurity.

They further urged the executive arm of government to ensure timely release of approved funds and swift implementation of security-related projects once the budget is passed.

The renewed commitment comes amid growing public concern over rising cases of kidnapping for ransom, attacks on rural communities, and the activities of armed groups, which have continued to strain national security and economic activities.

The Senate reaffirmed its resolve to work with the executive, security agencies, and other stakeholders to restore peace and protect lives and property across the country.