During a recent budget defense session in Abuja, members of the Nigerian National Assembly expressed serious concerns over the Federal Government’s envelope budgeting system, warning that it is inadequate for tackling the nation’s growing security challenges. Lawmakers questioned officials from the National Security Adviser’s office regarding persistent funding gaps, delays in fund releases, and the non-implementation of critical capital projects that are crucial for national security. This discussion underscores the urgent need for a reevaluation of the budgeting framework that supports Nigeria's security and intelligence agencies.

The Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, led by Chairman Yahaya Abdullahi, highlighted that the current envelope budgeting model has repeatedly failed to meet the operational needs of security agencies tasked with combating pervasive threats, including insurgency in the North-East and banditry and kidnappings in the North-West. The budget defense session revealed that the imposed funding constraints significantly hamper the effectiveness of security operations and initiatives meant to safeguard citizens and maintain stability across the country.

Moreover, the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence echoed these concerns, identifying the envelope budgeting framework as a principal barrier to the effective execution of the 2025 budget. Such criticisms reflect a growing sentiment among lawmakers that without a significant overhaul of the budgeting system, Nigeria may struggle to address its escalating security crises effectively, which could have broader implications for governance and civil society if not promptly addressed.