Buhari approves fund for military hardware
Nigerian govt. approves $1bn for arms and ammunition
To procure military hardware for the fight against insurgency in the West African country, President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria on Wednesday has approved $1bn.
Defence Minister, Mansur Dan-Ali, disclosed this at the end of the security meeting at the presidential villa in Abuja.
The meeting with security chiefs also reviewed security situation in the country.
“I can inform you that of recent, our leader, President Muhammadu Buhari, gave approval for the purchase of more equipment for the military, worth $1 billion,” he said.
However, some opposition elements in the country have faulted the vote of $1bn, alleging that the fund was subtly voted for Buhari’s re-election and not for arms to fight insecurity.
Ayodele Fayose, governor of Ekiti state, voted against the move while all other governors gave the federal government the approval to withdraw the money from the excess crude account.
Fayose had said Ekiti share of the money should be released for the fight against “Hunger Haram”, arguing that the $1 billion would be used for the reelection of Buhari.
Dan Ali also spoke about the specific issues discussed during the meeting.
“This is a normal meeting of security agencies in the country. As usual, we discussed the current activities that affected most of the states in the federation like Taraba, Zamfara and other states,” he said.
“We have operationalised a division in Sokoto, there will be a brigade in Katsina and another brigade in Zamfara that will take care of security situation in that area.
“The strength of security personnel has increased, including the Air Force additional quick response group, they have added enough manpower in that area.”
On the release of Leah Sharibu, the only schoolgirl in captivity out of the 119 students abducted in Dapchi, Yobe state, he said, “Well, we are making all available efforts to see that the girl is returned safely.”