Former lawmaker representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Senator Shehu Sani, has criticized Nigeria’s security institutions for diverting defence budgets to non-essential projects such as shopping malls, hotels, and universities.
Speaking on Politics Today, aired live on Channels Television Friday night, Sani expressed dismay over the ongoing insecurity in the country and warned that diverting funds meant for military operations undermines the fight against terrorism and banditry.
“Defence and security funds should go for defence,” Sani said. “Money meant for the Ministry of Defence and the military should not be used to build plazas or hotels for the National Association of Navy and military wives. It is for those on the battlefield to achieve results.”
He lamented that while soldiers at the frontlines face shortages of equipment and food, various security agencies have continued to invest in commercial ventures, including universities and shopping complexes.
Sani stressed that Nigeria must adopt a more strategic and focused approach to tackling terrorism, noting that the country’s decade-long battle with insurgency has shown limited results due to misplaced priorities.
“It is a known fact that Nigeria is at war with banditry and terrorism. We are not alone — countries like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso face similar threats. But we must do more than talk; action is needed,” he added.
The former senator also emphasized that defeating terrorism is not a short-term mission. “You cannot win the war against terrorism in 24 hours. It requires sustained, coordinated, and well-funded efforts,” he said.
