The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has said that improved funding and the timely release of appropriated resources to the military remain critical to turning the tide in Nigeria’s war against insurgency and other forms of insecurity.

Agbese made the remarks while speaking with journalists in Abuja on Sunday, where he also commended the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, for their “focused and results-driven approach” to tackling security challenges across the country.

The lawmaker said that while the Armed Forces have continued to demonstrate courage and resilience in the face of evolving threats, the effectiveness of their operations is closely tied to the availability of adequate and timely funding.

“Our military is doing an extraordinary job under very demanding conditions. However, no matter how committed and professional our troops are, the reality is that military operations require consistent funding, timely releases, and access to modern equipment,” Agbese said.

He noted that recent operational improvements in various theatres, including intensified offensives against insurgents and criminal groups, reflect a renewed strategic direction under the current military leadership.

According to him, General Oluyede has brought greater coordination and urgency to Nigeria’s defence architecture, while the Army under Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has sustained pressure on insurgent elements through targeted ground operations.

Agbese said both leaders have demonstrated a clear understanding of the complexity of modern warfare, particularly the need for intelligence-driven operations and stronger synergy across the different arms of the military.

“What we are seeing today is a leadership that is not only committed but also strategic. There is better coordination, improved morale among troops, and a clear determination to confront these threats head-on,” he said.

The Benue lawmaker added that the Armed Forces have recorded notable successes in degrading insurgent capabilities, disrupting supply chains, and reclaiming territories previously under the control of non-state actors.

He stressed, however, that sustaining and expanding these gains would depend largely on how quickly and efficiently financial resources are made available to the military.

“Appropriations alone are not enough. What matters is the speed and consistency of releases. Delays in funding can slow down operations, affect logistics, and ultimately give criminal elements the breathing space they need,” Agbese said.

He called on relevant government institutions to prioritise defence funding, describing it as an investment in national stability rather than a routine budgetary obligation.

Agbese also urged Nigerians to recognise and support the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, noting that public confidence and cooperation remain vital to the success of security operations.

“Our troops are making sacrifices daily to keep the country safe. As citizens, we must support them; not just by acknowledging their efforts, but by cooperating with security agencies and providing useful information where necessary,” he said.

The lawmaker further emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between the military and other security agencies, as well as state governments and local communities, in addressing the root causes of insecurity.

He expressed optimism that with improved funding, stronger institutional support, and continued leadership from the CDS and COAS, Nigeria can make significant progress in overcoming insurgency and restoring lasting peace.

“This is a fight we can win. With the right support, the right leadership, and a united national effort, we will see a turning point in our security landscape,” Agbese declared.

…Commends Gov Bago’s Development Drive

The Niger Good Governance Forum has commended Senator Mohammed Sani Musa for his responsive and people-centred representation, endorsing him for a third term in the national assembly.

The endorsement was contained in a statement issued on Saturday and signed by Bagudu Musa Bagudu, president of the group, who said the lawmaker has demonstrated sustained commitment to governance, legislative effectiveness and constituency development since assuming office.

Bagudu said the group reached its decision after a detailed review of Musa’s performance, citing his contributions to lawmaking, oversight functions and interventions across communities in Niger East senatorial district.

“Senator Sani Musa has shown capacity, consistency and a deep understanding of the needs of his constituents. His track record in the senate and his engagement with the grassroots clearly set him apart as a lawmaker deserving of continuity,” he said.

The group noted that Musa’s legislative activities and advocacy on national issues have positioned him as a strong voice within the senate, adding that his approach to representation reflects accountability and accessibility.

According to Bagudu, the senator’s constituency projects and empowerment programmes have had measurable impact across various sectors, including education, youth development and community support initiatives.

“Beyond the chambers, his interventions at the constituency level have touched lives directly. From support for small businesses to educational assistance and infrastructure facilitation, the evidence of his work is visible and widely acknowledged,” he said.

The forum also commended Musa’s role in promoting policies aimed at strengthening economic growth and national stability, noting that his contributions align with broader development goals.

Bagudu further used the opportunity to praise Mohammed Umar Bago for what he described as a bold and transformative leadership approach through the New Niger Agenda Development Blueprint.

He said the governor’s vision is already repositioning the state for long-term growth, particularly in infrastructure, agriculture and economic expansion.

“The New Niger Agenda is a clear demonstration of purposeful leadership. Governor Bago has shown determination in driving reforms that will place Niger State on a stronger development path, and we commend his commitment to delivering results for the people,” he said.

Bagudu added that synergy between the executive and legislative arms remains critical to sustaining development gains in the state.

He noted that continuity in representation at the national assembly level would complement ongoing reforms under the current administration in Niger State.

“We believe that the progress made so far should not be disrupted. A third term will provide the opportunity to deepen ongoing initiatives and deliver even greater benefits to the people,” he said.

The group called on political stakeholders and voters in Niger East to rally behind the senator, describing him as a dependable leader with a clear vision for development.

“We urge the good people of Niger East to continue supporting Senator Mohammed Sani Musa. Leadership is about results, and he has shown that he can deliver,” Bagudu added.

The Niger Good Governance Forum reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability and supporting leaders it considers capable of advancing good governance and sustainable development.

The Lagos State chapter of the Renewed Hope Labourers Network (RHLN) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office and backed Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, as its preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election.

The endorsement was announced in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by John Folarin Odusote, the Lagos State coordinator of the group, who described both leaders as “tested reformers whose leadership has delivered measurable progress”.

Odusote said the decision followed extensive consultations among members of the network across the state, noting that the group is committed to continuity in governance at both the federal and state levels.

According to him, President Tinubu’s administration has demonstrated a clear commitment to economic restructuring, infrastructure development and institutional reforms, which require sustained leadership to fully mature.

“We believe that the ongoing reforms at the federal level need time, consistency and political will to yield their full benefits. President Tinubu has shown courage in taking difficult but necessary decisions, and we are convinced that a second term will consolidate these gains,” the statement said.

The group noted that the administration’s policies on fiscal reforms, infrastructure expansion and governance restructuring have begun to reposition the country for long-term growth, adding that continuity would ensure stability and policy coherence.

On Lagos State, the group described Hamzat as a “quiet achiever” whose contributions to governance have been instrumental in sustaining the state’s development trajectory.

“Over the years, Dr Obafemi Hamzat has demonstrated competence, loyalty and a deep understanding of the policy direction that has made Lagos a model for subnational governance,” Odusote said.

The RHLN said Hamzat’s experience in public service, including his roles in infrastructure and technology development, positions him as a capable leader to take Lagos to the next phase of growth.

“His involvement in key reforms, particularly in the areas of digital governance, urban development and public service delivery, reflects a leadership style anchored on innovation and continuity,” the statement added.

The group emphasised that Lagos requires a leader who understands the complexities of governance in a rapidly growing megacity and can build on existing foundations without disruption.

According to Odusote, Hamzat represents stability and continuity, qualities the group considers critical as the state navigates future challenges related to population growth, infrastructure demands and economic expansion.

The RHLN also acknowledged the role of Rt. Hon. Abiodun Faleke, the grand patron of the group, describing him as a “pillar of progressive politics and a strong advocate for people-oriented governance”.

The group said Faleke’s support has strengthened its mobilisation efforts and reinforced its commitment to promoting leaders who align with its vision of good governance and continuity.

“We are proud to be guided by leaders who believe in service, accountability and strategic development. Rt. Hon. Faleke’s leadership continues to inspire our engagement across Lagos State,” Odusote said.

The group called on residents of Lagos and Nigerians at large to support its position, stressing that continuity in leadership is essential for sustaining ongoing reforms and development initiatives.

“As a network committed to national progress, we are confident that the combination of President Tinubu’s leadership at the federal level and Dr Hamzat’s prospective leadership in Lagos will deliver greater prosperity and stability,” the statement said.

The RHLN added that it would commence grassroots mobilisation across the state to build support for both leaders ahead of the 2027 general election, expressing optimism that its endorsement reflects the aspirations of many Nigerians seeking sustained development.