The National Assembly on Wednesday called for the public naming and prosecution of terrorism financiers in Nigeria as the Federal Government explores measures to address the growing insecurity across the country.
Both the Senate and House of Representatives pushed for the exposure of terrorism financiers during their plenary as a way of addressing the security crisis facing the country.
The Senate also demanded capital punishment for kidnappers — and anyone who finances, enables or provides information to them — as lawmakers debated amendments to the 2022 Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.
The proposal, sponsored by the Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, seeks to classify kidnapping, hostage-taking and related crimes as terrorism, giving security agencies wider powers to track, disrupt and prosecute criminal networks across the country.
The debate dominated Wednesday’s plenary, drawing contributions from key senators including Adams Oshiomhole, Orji Uzor Kalu and Minority Leader Abba Moro.
After hours of deliberation, the Senate unanimously approved the amendment bill for further legislative work and referred it to the Committees on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters (lead committee), National Security and Intelligence, and Interior.
The committees are expected to report back within two weeks.
Leading the debate on the bill, Bamidele said the purpose was to “designate kidnapping, hostage-taking and related offences as acts of terrorism and prescribe the death penalty for such offences without option of fine or alternative sentence.”
He warned that kidnapping had evolved into “coordinated, commercialised and militarised acts of violence perpetrated by organised criminal groups.”
“Kidnapping has instilled widespread fear in communities; undermined national economic activities and agricultural output; interrupted children’s education; bankrupted families forced to pay ransom; overstretched our security forces, and claimed countless innocent lives,” the Senate leader lamented.
According to him, the patterns of brutality associated with kidnapping “now carry all the characteristics of terrorism,” making it necessary to treat the offence under the counter-terrorism framework.
Bamidele added that the bill would empower security agencies with “broader operational authority, intelligence capabilities, and prosecutorial tools” to pursue terrorists and their enablers.
He stressed that the death penalty would apply not only to kidnappers but also to “their informants, logistics providers, harbourers, transporters, and anyone who knowingly assists, facilitates, or supports kidnapping operations,” adding that “attempt, conspiracy or incitement to kidnap attracts the same penalty.”
“Nigerians are kidnapped on highways, in schools, in homes, on farms and in markets,” he said. “This is not a mere crime. It is terrorism in its purest form.”
Backing the amendment, Oshiomhole criticised deradicalisation programmes for terror suspects, arguing that many offenders returned to crime.
“We should not continue with deradicalisation programmes again,” he said. “No more de-radicalisation. If you are caught and convicted for acts of terrorism, then the penalty should be death.”
Kalu also supported the bill, insisting that informants and sponsors of kidnappers must “face the consequence.”
“Nigerians have suffered at the hands of kidnappers. Young girls have been raped. Women have become widows for no reason. This must not continue again,” he said.
Senate Minority Leader Moro described the bill as “a unanimous decision of the Senate,” noting that it was necessary to impose capital punishment “with the hope that kidnappers will face the penalty.”
Senator Victor Umeh, in his contribution, condemned the rising trend of abductions and the killing of victims even after ransom payments. He said financial institutions aiding such crimes must also be scrutinised.
Last week, the Senate took a similarly tough stance as it debated a motion following the November 18 attack on Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, in Ekiti LGA of Kwara State, where gunmen killed two worshippers and abducted 38 others.
Although all victims were later rescued, lawmakers said the incident exposed the spread of insurgent cells into the South and worsening insecurity in rural communities.
The debate stemmed from a motion by Senator Yisa Ashiru titled ‘Urgent Need to Address Escalating Insecurity in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger States and Strengthen National Security Frameworks.’
Senators also raised concerns over rising school abductions, which have led to shutdowns in parts of Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, and all 47 Federal Unity Colleges nationwide.
During plenary, the House of Representatives similarly called for the public naming and prosecution of terrorism financiers.
The resolution followed the consideration of its draft security report during a plenary session presided over in part by the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu.
The House had on Tuesday dedicated its entire plenary sessions to a comprehensive national debate on the rising insecurity across the country.
The development stemmed from the kidnapping of hundreds of school pupils and church worshipers in various parts of the country.
Presiding over the debate of the proposed resolutions, Kalu urged members to make meaningful contributions, stating that the resolutions reached would end up on the desk of President Bola Tinubu, who is at liberty to implement all or some of them.
One of the resolutions reached by the lawmakers was that “Financiers of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping be publicly named, sanctioned and prosecuted.”
The House also proposed that “terrorism-related prosecutions be open, expeditious and transparent.”
Similarly, they called for the establishment of a Special Court for terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, even as they sought the strengthening and enforcement of the penalties for arms trafficking and illegal possession of weapons.
Other resolutions include, “All security expenditure should be placed on ‘First Line Charge’ to guarantee predictable and timely funding, and all approved security budgets must be fully and promptly disbursed.
“That, in recognition of the established link between cash-based economies and the financing of terrorism, banditry, ransom payments and other criminal/enterprises, the House recommends a phased strengthening of cashless transaction frameworks nationwide.
Accordingly, the House urged the executive, the Central Bank of Nigeria and financial institutions to expand, upgrade and secure e-banking infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved arena, ensure reliability, accessibility and public confidence.
“That enhanced digital payment systems, transaction monitoring mechanisms and financial crime analytics be integrated into national security operations, while ensuring that the transition remains inclusive, does not exclude vulnerable populations, and is implemented in a manner that balances security imperatives with economic realities.”
There was a long debate when Jigawa lawmaker, Abubakar Yelleman and his Borno counterpart, Ahmed Satomi, supported President Tinubu’s directive for the immediate withdrawal of police guards from Very Important Persons in the land.
According to Yelleman, “It does not make sense that one person will be going about with about 10 policemen. I think we should look into this. I think Mr President knows that the National Security and Civil Defence Corps are well-equipped. That is why he ordered the use of civil defence personnel and withdrawal of police personnel to resume their core policing duties.”
On his part, Satomi, who chairs the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence, said, “I think we should go with the President’s directive. We can strengthen the Civil Defence. What exactly protects people is intelligence gathering, not guns. If we provide police for ourselves, it would appear that we are scared of something.”
Ruling on the argument, Kalu said key national figures, including state governors and judicial officers, deserve police guards and should be protected personnel of the Nigerian Police Force.
“We are not VIPs; we are national officers. I won’t be comfortable seeing the Chief Justice of Nigeria, other Justices and governors moving around without police protection. If you give a governor immunity and take away his security, what is the essence of the immunity? “ he asked.
At the end, the House resolved that only serving national officers should be entitled to police protection.
The House also proposed that “the military ‘super-camp’ strategy be formally reviewed, given its operational imitations, including reduced territorial presence and increased community vulnerability; and that the Armed Forces consider a return to forward operating bases and sustained community-level deployment as a more effective doctrine for securing affected areas.”
Others include, “That new army formations, police divisions and Civil Defence units be established or expanded in volatile regions, high-risk areas and strategic locations,
“Security coverage for schools, worship centres, markets and other soft targets should be strengthened through coordinated preventive measures and improved rapid-response capacity. This should include enhanced implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative, with attention to risk assessments, perimeter protection, Closed Circuit Televisions, early-warning systems and community-based reporting to protect pupils, teachers and other vulnerable groups.
“All public CCTV systems should be reactivated, upgraded, and, where necessary, complemented with new installations, and integrated into a national and sub-national surveillance grid,” the report proposed.
The House also proposed that “Actionable intelligence generated by the Department of State Services and other security agencies, including intelligence shared across agencies, should be proactively operationalised by all security formations, with strengthened inter-state collaboration, particularly along border corridors and other high-risk zones.”
It also advocated that “the process to establish State Police be expedited through Constitutional amendments, placing policing on the Concurrent Legislative List.”
The House underscored the urgent need to curb fake news, misinformation, harmful content and deceptive AI-generated material, “especially content that threatens national security. In line with global best practice, the House calls for a balanced regulatory framework that protects free expression while requiring digital platforms to remove harmful content.
The House called for “an effective national tracking mechanism for all arms, weapons and security equipment held by security agencies. This should include a unified inventory system, digital tracking tools, periodic audit, and Strict accountability measures to prevent diversion, loss, or misuse and to strengthen operational integrity and public safety.”
To strengthen national security, the House called for “massive recruitment into the armed forces, the police and other security agencies shall commence without delay to meet current operational demands; and that clear recruitment timelines and implementation schedules be developed and submitted to the National Assembly for effective legislative oversight.
“The welfare of security personnel be enhanced through improved salaries, insurance, housing, medical care and compensation frameworks.
“Officers approaching retirement who possess specialised operational or technical skills be formally co-opted to support security agencies in a structured, clearly regulated manner that does not alter or interfere with existing command hierarchies or lines of authority.”
The lawmakers also called for the establishment of a National Fallen Heroes Support Fund to provide sustained assistance to the families of deceased servicemen and women, including automatic employment opportunities and scholarships for their immediate family members.
Another resolution is the establishment of a Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission “to address extremist, communal and religiously motivated violence.”
“Ransom payments and informal amnesty negotiations by government entities should be prohibited, and a clear legal framework should be enacted to outlaw such practices while regulating any authorised amnesty processes. Only lawful criminal-justice procedures shall prevail,” the lawmakers further proposed.
They further noted that “The ongoing bilateral engagement with the Government of the United States should be strengthened, particularly in intelligence, surveillance, counter-terrorism training, and financial network disruption.”
It also proposed that emergency relief, trauma care and stabilisation programmes be rapidly deployed to affected communities, adding that “weapons mop-up operations continue across all affected regions.”
The resolutions would be transmitted to the Senate for concurrence.
*Ex-CDS Musa promises probe
Meanwhile, the Senate on Wednesday questioned former Chief of Defence Staff and ministerial nominee, Gen Christopher Musa, over recent security lapses, including the withdrawal of troops from their posts shortly before the abduction of 26 schoolgirls in Kebbi State.
Musa, appearing before lawmakers for his screening as Minister of Defence designate, vowed to launch a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the troop withdrawal from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area—an action that has drawn widespread outrage.
In the wake of the abduction, news made the rounds that soldiers abandoned their duty posts hours before terrorists stormed the school on November 17.
The armed group killed the Vice Principal, Malam Hassan Makuku, and abducted 26 students.
While two of the girls later escaped, 24 were taken away, but they were later released.
Musa told senators he would immediately set up a committee to examine the incident once he assumes office.
He also referenced the recent killing of a brigade commander in Borno State, condemning the attack and assuring the Senate that he would probe the killing of Brig Gen Musa Uba and other officers targeted by terrorists.
“It is very unfortunate and really painful. I want to assure Nigerians that we will not stand by and allow terrorists to have the capacity to do such.
“We are going to go after them fully, working together with all the security agencies and Ministries, Departments and Agencies (of government). We are going to investigate fully.
“The Armed Forces have a way, and then from the defence, we are going to make sure that we continue with the oversight over their activities.”
He warned that no “act of insolence or cowardice” within the armed forces would be tolerated, stressing the need for strict professionalism and improved oversight of military operations.
Drawing on his 39 years in service, the nominee said he was fully prepared to confront Nigeria’s security challenges head-on. He expressed confidence that the war against terrorism and banditry can be won with adequate support and inter-agency cooperation.
Musa, however, admitted that significant gaps exist within the armed forces.
“From day one, we will review all ongoing activities, identifying adequate funding as fundamental,” he added.
He emphasised strengthening the Safe Schools Initiative, lamenting that many schools across the country remain exposed and poorly secured.
The nominee argued for enhanced community engagement and a whole-of-society security approach combining technology, local intelligence, and coordinated operations.
He further said many security agencies were operating below capacity and needed to harmonise operations, particularly with neighbouring countries, given the transnational nature of terrorism.
According to him, Nigeria risks more devastating attacks if its institutions fail to work together, as terrorists view the country as a lucrative target.
Musa called for a zero-tolerance policy on terrorism and banditry, warning that outdated laws must be reviewed urgently. He identified unregulated mining as a major source of criminal financing and called for tighter monitoring backed by modern technology.
Musa’s commitment comes five days after The PUNCH exclusively reported that all military personnel previously deployed to the school in Maga were being interrogated at Defence Headquarters over their sudden withdrawal ahead of the attack.
A senior government official disclosed that the probe began shortly after the abduction, which has since sparked public anger and renewed scrutiny of security protocols around schools.
The November 17 attack is the latest in a string of assaults on educational institutions in the North, reinforcing concerns that despite years of pledges, many schools remain soft targets for terrorists.
The senate subsequently confirmed him as defence minister.
*Pressure from Trump
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, opened up about the pressure Nigerian leaders are facing following the escalating security crisis in the country.
Responding to suggestions by some senators that Musa shouldn’t be questioned, he warned that both Nigerians and the international community were watching the process closely.
“This is not a period we should say bow and go. Even Donald Trump is on our neck,” he said, referencing global attention on Nigeria’s worsening security situation.
The drama began when Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East) proposed that the former CDS be allowed to take a bow without questioning. The suggestion triggered immediate uproar, as several lawmakers stood in protest. The chamber grew rowdy, forcing Akpabio to intervene.
A visibly agitated Senator Garba Maidoki (PDP, Kebbi South) marched towards the Senate President’s seat, insisting that Musa must be interrogated on national security issues. Akpabio agreed, saying Nigerians deserved to hear directly from the nominee at a time of escalating insecurity.
“Our constituents would like to hear from him. We are asking him questions because our constituents would like to ask him questions too,” Akpabio said.
“With over 200 children in the bush being tortured, give the man an opportunity to give Nigerians hope. It is not like we don’t like him.”
Order was eventually restored, and the Senate proceeded with a full-scale screening.
Musa, nominated on Tuesday by President Bola Tinubu following the resignation of Defence Minister Badaru Mohammed, allegedly on health grounds, pledged to prioritise the protection of lives and territory.
“I pledge to do my best to ensure that Nigeria is secure and safe,” he told the lawmakers. “We need the support of everyone, every Nigerian, working together as a team, because it’s going to be a team effort.
“The enemies we are dealing with are evil forces that don’t mean well for this country and have no respect for human lives. If we don’t work together, we will allow them to perpetrate the evil acts they have been doing.”
Musa’s appointment comes at a time of heightened concern over nationwide kidnappings, insurgency, and mass abductions — including over 200 schoolchildren still held captive by bandits. The Senate is expected to conclude the confirmation process shortly.
EU prioritises security, defence, stability
The European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States, Gautier Mignot, on Wednesday, reviewed the achievements of the outgoing year during an end-of-year media parley.
Mignot also outlined the bloc’s priorities for 2026.
The event, attended by several EU member state envoys, provided a platform for assessing progress made and setting the agenda for the year ahead.
Mignot, reviewing 2025, said insecurity and humanitarian concerns remain central to the EU’s partnership with Nigeria, stressing that the bloc has continued to invest in peace-building across the country.
“The EU is also actively supporting Nigeria’s fight against insecurity and funding peace-building initiatives across the country,” he said, adding that the protection of vulnerable groups remains a priority.
“Protecting all populations and, in particular, minorities and IDPs, is particularly essential. This is what he has done in particular after the Yelwata killing in Benue State in June.
“In the North, we have launched a Northern package of some €300m of Team Europe funding,” the ambassador added.
He noted that the EU had stepped up its humanitarian response in regions affected by conflict and severe malnutrition.
“This year alone, we have committed nearly €50m in humanitarian assistance to address the problem of malnutrition,” the ambassador said.
The envoy described the EU–African Union summit in Luanda as a defining moment for both continents and reaffirmed Europe’s commitment to long-term development partnerships.
He said the EU’s model differs from other global actors because it focuses on “long-term, top-quality and sustainable projects,” including infrastructure backed by capacity-building and regulatory support.
According to him, Nigeria’s position as Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies makes it a strategic partner for the EU.
While acknowledging challenges such as insecurity, poverty and inequality, he highlighted the country’s strengths, particularly in innovation and enterprise.
Mignot reaffirmed the strength of economic ties between both sides, noting that the EU remains Nigeria’s biggest trading partner.
“We proudly are Nigeria’s first trading partner and first market for non-oil and gas exports,” he said, adding that Nigeria enjoys a significant trade surplus with the bloc.
The envoy also pointed to major EU-backed projects implemented this year, including the €410 million Omi-Eko electric waterways project in Lagos, new health investment commitments, cultural programmes, and expanded cooperation with ECOWAS.
Looking ahead, Mignot said 2026 would feature deeper dialogue on “defence, renewed cooperation on migration and mobility, and expanded investments in renewable energy, digital infrastructure and climate-smart agriculture.”
He noted that a specific peace and security dialogue “might unlock new funding under the European Peace Facility.”
He also confirmed plans for an EU–Nigeria Ministerial Meeting and a business forum aimed at boosting trade and investment.
Despite global uncertainties, the envoy reiterated the EU’s commitment to Nigeria as a long-term partner.
“The EU interest in all this is clear: to help Nigeria thrive as a stable, democratic and prosperous neighbour and key partner of Europe,” he said.
Nigeria continues to face serious security challenges, including terrorism in the North-East, banditry in the Northwest, and violent communal clashes in the Middle Belt.
Recent incidents, such as the Yelwata killings in Benue State in June, attacks on villages in Kaduna and Zamfara, and a surge in kidnappings for ransom, have displaced thousands and worsened humanitarian conditions.
Kidnappings—targeting students, travellers, and even entire communities—have become a major security concern, often carried out by armed gangs or criminal networks.
These attacks create fear, disrupt education and commerce, and add to the millions of internally displaced persons in conflict-affected regions.
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