Military and paramilitary agencies in Nigeria received N2.3 trillion in special intervention funding between October 2023 and September 2025, according to records from the Federation Account Allocation Committee. The funds were disbursed in 23 equal tranches of N100 billion across three phases, operating as a transit account with each deposit immediately paid out.
The ledger did not specify how the funds were divided among the armed forces and paramilitary agencies, nor the exact projects or operations financed. Additional allocations included N450 billion in non-regular allowances for the armed forces in three monthly tranches in 2025 and a N40 billion security fund released through the Office of the National Security Adviser.
The high level of security spending comes amid growing concerns over insecurity, which businesses rank as the top constraint to operations. The Central Bank of Nigeria’s February 2026 survey showed insecurity with an index score of 71.1, surpassing high taxes and insufficient power supply.
PLATEAU ATTACKS
On March 29, 2026, gunmen attacked Angwan Rukuba in Jos North, Plateau State. Reports of casualties vary: residents initially confirmed six dead, while local youth leaders reported 27 fatalities. The Plateau State Police confirmed 12 deaths, with two more bodies later recovered.
Witnesses described attackers arriving on motorbikes and firing indiscriminately at people and street vendors. The state government imposed a 48-hour curfew, and the University of Jos suspended examinations scheduled for the following days. Governor Caleb Mutfwang visited the affected community, promising medical support and proper burials for victims. Authorities also reiterated the ban on commercial motorcycles within the Greater Jos area, citing the attackers’ use of bikes to escape.
KADUNA ATTACKS
In Kaduna, suspected bandits attacked a wedding in Kahir community, Kagarko Local Government Area, killing at least 13 people, abducting 25, and injuring seven others. Residents reported the assailants looted shops and moved freely, highlighting the vulnerability of rural communities. Security agencies are conducting ongoing operations to rescue abductees and apprehend the perpetrators.
OUTRAGE AND CALLS FOR ACTION
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) condemned the attacks, calling them a grim reflection of worsening national security. CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh described the Palm Sunday violence in Jos as “unacceptable” and criticized the attackers’ use of imitation military uniforms, warning it undermines public trust.
Okoh urged authorities to take decisive action, stating, “Those responsible for this atrocity must be found, arrested, and made to face justice; swiftly and decisively. Anything less will deepen the sense that life in our country is no longer protected.” CAN also advised worshippers to remain vigilant during Holy Week and cooperate with security agencies.
Despite the massive security funding, Nigeria continues to face severe challenges in protecting urban and rural communities, with attacks threatening social stability, business operations, and public confidence.
