FG Allocates ₦5.4tn to Security as UK Backs Nigeria's Counterterrorism Drive

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has said Nigeria cannot tackle emerging security threats alone, stressing that terrorism, cybercrime, organised crime, and illicit financial activities require stronger international cooperation.

Speaking at the 4th UK-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership (SDP4) Dialogue, Ribadu said although Nigeria has significantly weakened terrorist and criminal networks, security threats remain dynamic, technology-driven, and increasingly transnational.

He reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to working closely with trusted international partners through coordinated efforts involving defence, intelligence, law enforcement, diplomacy, cyber security, and financial systems.

Ribadu also commended the United Kingdom for its continued support in strengthening Nigeria's counterterrorism efforts, including intelligence sharing, disrupting terrorist financing, capacity building, and enhancing the operations of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).

In response, UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell reaffirmed Britain's commitment to supporting Nigeria's security architecture. He disclosed that UK military personnel and counterterrorism experts are currently working with Nigerian security agencies, particularly in the North-East, to combat terrorism and improve forensic and investigative capabilities.

Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu revealed that the Federal Government allocated ₦5.4 trillion to security and defence in the 2026 budget—the largest sectoral allocation—as part of efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other security challenges. He also disclosed that lawmakers are considering constitutional reforms to make security funding a first-line charge on the national budget.

In a separate development, troops of Operation Hadin Kai killed two suspected ISWAP spies attempting to infiltrate Nigeria from Cameroon through Borno State, while security forces intensified border surveillance to prevent further terrorist movements.

Also in Niger State, suspected Lakurawa terrorists attacked a Nigeria Immigration Service checkpoint along the Mokwa–New Bussa Road, stealing an AK-47 rifle before fleeing. Security agencies confirmed that no personnel were killed or abducted, and operations are underway to apprehend the attackers.