The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has emphasized the importance of combining military operations, political dialogue, and justice in addressing Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

Speaking at the commissioning of officers’ accommodation at the Niger Barracks Extension and the Link Road at Mambilla Barracks in Abuja, Abbas noted that Nigeria has, over the years, battled complex threats including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft, piracy, cybercrime, and transnational organized crime.

He observed that these security challenges have evolved rapidly, testing the nation’s institutions and straining available resources. Despite these issues, he highlighted Nigeria’s enduring story of resilience, adaptability, and reform, adding that national security requires collaboration between government institutions and the public.

Abbas stressed that military intervention alone cannot resolve every security problem, pointing out that sustainable peace demands political dialogue, community participation, economic empowerment, and justice.

He revealed that the House of Representatives, working with the Senate, has approved appropriations for critical defence infrastructure such as munitions, communication systems, intelligence and surveillance equipment, and protective assets — while ensuring transparency, accountability, and value for money.

According to him, the legislature has also provided funding for barracks renovation, family housing, healthcare, mental health programs, and post-service reintegration initiatives. Through effective oversight, he added, the House has promoted inter-agency cooperation, clarified procurement processes, and applied lessons from previous experiences.

The Speaker further disclosed that legislative proposals are underway to strengthen professionalism and accountability in the security sector. These efforts include enhancing the legal framework for joint operations, improving welfare and pension systems for active and retired personnel, boosting local defence manufacturing under the “Made-in-Nigeria” initiative, and developing flexible logistics and maintenance systems.

Abbas reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to collaborating with the Executive, the Armed Forces, traditional institutions, and international partners to achieve the collective goals of peace and stability.

In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, stated that the newly constructed facilities and link road were not merely for convenience but essential for improving efficiency, safety, and comfort for officers. He added that the Niger Barracks Extension Block would serve as a conducive environment for policymakers at the Defence Headquarters, allowing them to craft sound and forward-thinking defence strategies.