The House of Representatives convened a plenary session exclusively to Nigeria’s national security situation, examining current threats, emerging risks, and the legislative measures required to strengthen the nation’s security institutions and protect citizens.
Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, outlined a comprehensive legislative framework built on prevention, accountability, modernization, and decentralization; and rooted in citizen protection, justice, and the rule of law, over short term expedients.
Ending Ransom and Unstructured Amnesty Negotiations
The Deputy Speaker proposed legisiation to prohibit government entities and officials from engaging in ransom payments or unstructured amnesty negotiations, arguing such practices incentivize further kidnappings and undermine the rule of law.
Predictable and Transparent Police Funding
He called for a predictable and transparent funding mechanism for the Nigeria Police Force, with transparent budgetary arrangements in ensuring the Force has adequate operational capacity, mobilty, training, and logistics to confront today’s complex threats.
State Policing: Constitutional Reform
Rt. Hon. Kalu reaffirmed that laws and policies are most effective when grounded in values. He noted that the clergy’s involvement in governance helps strengthen transparency, accountability, and social justice, core pillars required for national renewal. The National Assembly, he said, remains committed to institutional reforms that reflect ethical leadership and shared responsibility.
Legal Framework for Drone and Military Technology Oversight
He proposed the establishment of a legal framework to regulate the ethical deployment and oversight of military technology, including military grade drones and emerging security technologies, to balance operational capability with
respect for human rights and accountability.
The Deputy Speaker commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his decisive efforts in confronting Nigeria’s security challenges and reaffirmed the National Assembly commitment to working closely with the Executive to translate strategy into laws that safeguards lives and property.
These proposals will now move to the drafting and committee stages, where they will undergo legislative scrutiny, stakeholder consultation, and refinement, ensuring that Nigeria’s security framework becomes modern, proactive, and
effective.
