The Federal Government has disbursed a total of N1.03tn to combat insecurity and terrorism from January to June 2024, according to a budget implementation report obtained through Open Treasury, a website monitoring government spending.
This expenditure represents 42.80 percent of the allocated N2.41tn for security, leaving a balance of N1.38tn.
Despite this significant investment, the first seven months of 2024 have seen devastating security challenges.
Data from Beacon Consulting, an indigenous intelligence outfit, revealed that 5,801 Nigerians were killed, and 4,348 were abducted in terrorist attacks across the nation.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that these incidents occurred in 574 Local Government Areas.
Findings showed that the North-East was the most affected region, with 2,223 deaths, accounting for 33 percent of the total fatalities.
The North-West followed closely, witnessing the death of 2,023 individuals and the abduction of 2,607 people in 125 councils.
In the North-Central region, 1,102 residents were killed, and 847 were kidnapped across 96 councils.
The South-West recorded 434 deaths and 93 abductions in 106 councils, while in the South-South, 275 individuals were killed, and 145 were abducted in 81 councils.
The South-East experienced 358 fatalities and 42 abductions in 78 councils.
Insecurity has severely hindered Nigeria’s socio-economic development, affecting various aspects of life.
The widespread violence and crime, stemming from terrorism, banditry, cattle rustling, and kidnapping for ransom, have created an environment of fear and instability.
Despite the government’s promises and substantial investments in advanced attack machinery, insurgents continue to operate with relative ease.
Although the number of attacks and casualties has decreased, the persistent threats underscore the ongoing challenges in achieving comprehensive security.
Alongside the security expenditure, the Federal Government disbursed N9.53tn to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the first half of 2024.
This figure represents a 24 percent disbursement rate from the total appropriation of N38.83tn, leaving a balance of N29.3tn.
These funds were allocated to over 500 MDAs for operations and infrastructure development.
The Ministry of Finance received the highest allocation of N4.96tn, a 36.94 percent disbursement rate from its N13.43tn appropriation.
This increase is likely due to its salary payment duties. The defence ministry followed with N1.03tn, indicating a 42.80 percent disbursement rate from its N2.41tn allocation.
Despite the allocations, the implementation of the capital component of the 2024 national budget has yet to begin.
The Accountant-General of the Federation, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Madein, admitted that the decision to continue with the 2023 budget was taken after consultations with key ministers.
This delay may impair the government’s January-December budget cycle and its national development plan for 2021-2025.
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