In a dramatic escalation of legislative pressure, the Nigerian Senate has demanded the deployment of 100,000 additional troops to confront the worsening wave of insecurity sweeping across the country. The resolution followed heated debates triggered by the recent mass abductions, terrorist attacks, and rising criminal activities that have paralysed several communities.
Senators Decry Federal Government’s Security Response
During plenary, senators from both ruling and opposition parties expressed frustration over what they described as the federal government’s “underwhelming and inconsistent” response to national security threats. Many lawmakers argued that Nigeria’s current troop strength is insufficient to cover vast ungoverned regions exploited by terrorists and bandits.
Growing Boldness of Armed Groups
Senators highlighted the growing boldness of armed groups who now attack highways, schools, churches, and farmlands with impunity. Several lawmakers noted that terrorists appear better equipped and more coordinated than in previous years.
Senate’s Proposed Security Measures
The Senate’s proposal includes:
● Deployment of 100,000 new troops across high-risk states
● Aerial surveillance expansion in the North-West and North-Central
● Immediate recruitment into the Army, Air Force, and Police
● Improved logistics and welfare for frontline soldiers
● Establishment of rapid response units in rural LGAs
Call for Intelligence Overhaul
Senators also pushed for a comprehensive intelligence overhaul, noting that most attacks occur despite early warnings from community informants. They cited recurring failures in intelligence sharing between the military, police, DSS, and local authorities.
Defence Ministry and Analysts React
The Defence Ministry has yet to respond formally, but insiders say the proposal would require significant funding and structural adjustments. Analysts argue that Nigeria must first address issues of corruption, poor training, and inadequate equipment before increasing troop numbers.
Civil Society Groups Caution Against Overreliance on Troop Deployment
Civil society groups welcomed the Senate’s resolution but cautioned that troop deployment alone would not solve Nigeria’s insecurity problem. They argue that without community partnership, border monitoring, and strong political will, the government risks repeating old strategies that have consistently failed.
Public Reaction
Meanwhile, Nigerians on social media expressed mixed reactions—some applauding the Senate for taking security seriously, others questioning whether fresh deployments would make a difference given past failures.
A Nation at a Turning Point
As insecurity continues to escalate across multiple states, the Senate insists that immediate and large-scale action is the only way forward.