The Federal Government of Nigeria has disbursed a substantial sum of N1 trillion in the first half of 2024 to tackle insecurity and terrorism, according to a recent budget implementation report.
The expenditure represents 42.80% of the N2.41 trillion allocated for security-related activities, leaving a remaining balance of N1.38 trillion.
Despite the investment, Nigeria continues to grapple with severe security challenges. In the first seven months of 2024 alone, at least 5,801 Nigerians lost their lives and 4,348 were abducted in various terrorist and criminal attacks, as reported by Punch.
The violence has been widespread, affecting 574 Local Government Areas across the country. The distribution of fatalities and abductions by geopolitical zones reveals the gravity of the situation:
- North-East: 2,223 deaths (33% of total fatalities) and 614 kidnappings in 88 councils.
- North-West: 2,023 deaths and 2,607 abductions across 125 councils.
- North-Central: 1,102 deaths and 847 kidnappings in 96 councils.
- South-West: 434 deaths and 93 abductions in 106 councils.
- South-South: 275 deaths and 145 abductions in 81 councils.
- South-East: 358 deaths and 42 abductions in 78 councils.
The persistent threat of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping has severely impacted Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
Despite efforts to enhance security through advanced equipment and increased funding, insurgents continue to operate with relative ease, and the frequency of attacks remains high.
