NASS will stand with Armed Forces to defeat terrorists – Reps

Deputy Spokesperson of the 10th House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, on Saturday, assured that the National Assembly will continue to support the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism and banditry across the country.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Hon. Agbese (LP- Benue) gave the assurance while reacting to the recent attack launched by terrorists against the troops of the Nigerian Army in Benisheikh in Borno,, during which Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and other soldiers paid the supreme price in the line of duty.

He said the 10th National Assembly remains committed to providing the necessary legislative backing, funding, and oversight required to strengthen the capacity of the military and other security agencies.

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While acknowledging that Nigeria is currently facing complex security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crimes, the lawmaker pledged the Legislature’s resolve to work closely with the executive to address the situation.

“The National Assembly will stand firmly with our armed forces and all security agencies to defeat terrorists and bandits threatening the peace and unity of our country,” he said.

The Deputy Spokesperson commended the courage and sacrifices of troops on the frontlines, describing them as patriots who continue to risk their lives to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity.

He said the House of Representatives would continue to prioritise defence and security in its legislative agenda, including ensuring adequate budgetary provisions, improving welfare for military personnel, and strengthening intelligence gathering mechanisms.

According to him, lawmakers are also committed to robust oversight of defence spending to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective utilisation of resources allocated to the sector.

The lawmaker emphasised that prioritising funding for the armed forces is important in winning the ongoing war against insurgency and terrorism in the country.

“We understand that the government cannot afford everything at the same time which is true. Nevertheless timely release of funds for procurement of critical defence assets will go a long way in addressing threats against the country”, he said.

He further urged Nigerians to support the armed forces by providing timely and credible information that could aid security operations, noting that the fight against insecurity requires collective effort.

“The battle against terrorism and banditry is not for the military alone. It requires the cooperation of all Nigerians. Citizens must remain vigilant and support security agencies with useful information,” he added.

The lawmaker expressed optimism that with sustained collaboration between the legislature, executive, and security agencies, Nigeria would overcome its current security challenges and restore lasting peace across affected communities.