By Obinna Uballa
The Senate on Tuesday issued its strongest warning yet over Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, calling on President Bola Tinubu to authorise the immediate recruitment of at least 100,000 additional troops to stabilise the nation’s overstretched security forces.
Lawmakers also resolved to investigate the utilisation of funds allocated to the Safe School Programme, following renewed concerns about the vulnerability of schools, heightened by the recent abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State.
The resolutions stemmed from a motion by Senator Abdullahi Yahaya (APC, Kebbi North), who said insecurity had reached a breaking point and required urgent, non-partisan action.
During the heated debate, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) described the situation as “an existential threat,” urging colleagues to rise above political divisions. “We shouldn’t be political or lackadaisical about it because those children are not our own,” he said.
Senator Aminu Tambuwal (PDP, Sokoto South) warned that the country had “fallen into the trap of its enemies,” cautioning that disunity would endanger Nigeria’s future.
Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan (APC, Yobe North) lamented persistent attacks despite huge security budgets. “These children are the leaders of tomorrow. We must do everything possible to protect them,” he said.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North) faulted state governors for failing to take responsibility in securing their states. “Security is not only the responsibility of the federal government. Governors must be engaged,” he said.
Senator Victor Umeh (LP, Anambra Central) urged the adoption of advanced intelligence and surveillance technologies, while Senator Simon Lalong (APC, Plateau South) questioned recurring attacks on girls. “Where has the girl child gone wrong? This is a national emergency,” he said.
An additional prayer moved by Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) — seeking the recruitment of 100,000 youths into the armed forces — was overwhelmingly adopted. Oshiomhole emphasised the need for proper training and equipment for the new personnel to effectively take on terrorists, bandits and other violent groups.
The Senate further called for increased deployment of modern surveillance and intelligence tools to enhance rescue operations and help locate abducted schoolchildren in Kebbi and other affected states.
