Service Chiefs Detail Equipment, Welfare Challenges in Meeting with Representatives

Before the House of Representatives, on Tuesday, the service chiefs and Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun detailed challenges and needs to enhance national security.

The service chiefs named were Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, and Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, urged National Assembly intervention to bolster surveillance in backwaters, creeks, and coastal areas, aiming to monitor oil theft, pipeline vandalisation, and illegal refining around the clock.

IGP Kayode Egbetokun highlighted challenges within the force, including poor logistics, insufficient patrol vehicles, inadequate training, and subpar personnel welfare.

CDS Musa appealed for improved funding, revealing that every military personnel, himself included, is allocated N1,500 per day.

He sought judicial collaboration to prevent the release of criminals on technicalities and advocated for special courts to address high-level criminal arrests.

Expressing concern for the safety of security personnel, CDS Musa emphasised the need for diplomatic action against individuals like Simon Ekpa, whom he deemed a menace to the country.

On the issue of illegal mining, Gen. Musa expressed a preference for states to take over for proper management.

The security chiefs participated in a security sectoral debate in the green chamber around 11:26 am, following criticism from lawmakers the previous Thursday for sending representatives who were rejected.

During the plenary session on Tuesday, the service chiefs and IGP outlined individual efforts to address the country’s security situation.

After lawmakers posed questions, the House entered an executive session to receive answers from the security heads.