By Chukwudi Obasi, Abuja
The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence Chairman, Ahmed Satomi, has described the proposed National Security and Intelligence Trust Fund as a crucial step toward tackling Nigeria’s security challenges.
Speaking at a public hearing on the bill in Abuja on Tuesday, Satomi emphasized that the initiative aims to provide alternative funding for the country’s intelligence agencies, reducing their reliance on annual budgetary allocations.
According to him, the current funding model is inadequate.
He cited the example of California University’s $100 billion budget, with 30 percent allocated to research and development, contrasting it with Nigeria’s significantly lower security budget despite having a larger population.
The proposed trust fund would be financed through multiple sources, including one percent of the consolidated revenue from the Federation Account, proceeds from Nigeria’s airspace usage, and unclaimed funds.
However, this option remains under debate due to constitutional concerns.
Another proposed revenue source is donations and gifts, but some stakeholders have raised concerns that this provision could encourage corruption and have suggested its removal.
Supporters of the bill argue that Nigeria’s security challenges cannot be addressed through military operations alone.
They stress the need for intelligence gathering, training, and capacity building to complement kinetic responses.
The bill proposes a governing board comprising representatives from security agencies, paramilitary organizations, and civil society groups to ensure transparency and accountability.
The board would oversee the management and disbursement of the trust fund to ensure its effective utilization.
Satomi noted that 90 percent of submissions received during the public hearing supported the bill, reflecting widespread backing for alternative security funding.
