By Our Reporters
ABUJA (RECISE POST) – The joint Committee of the National Assembly on Air Force has rejected the proposed budget of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), describing it as inadequate to sustain the level of firepower required to effectively combat insurgency across the country at a critical time.
The Committee said the allocation falls short of meeting the operational demands of the Air Force, especially in view of the nation’s persistent security challenges.
Consequently, it resolved to set up a mini-committee to engage the Federal Government, the Budget Office, and relevant legislative committees to develop a more realistic and sustainable funding framework.
Speaking to journalists, the House Committee Chairman, Hon. Kabir Alhassan, disclosed that once the revised budget proposal is concluded, it will be presented to the Joint Committee for consideration and approval. He said the objective is to strengthen the capacity of the Nigerian Air Force to effectively carry out its constitutional responsibilities.
Clarifying issues surrounding the 2025 budget cycle, Hon. Alhassan explained that although a percentage of the capital component has been deferred to 2026 due to fiscal constraints, the overall funding level remains insufficient.
He stressed that any funds eventually released—particularly in 2026, must be adequate to fully support the operational and strategic needs of the Air Force.
The Committee called on the Federal Government to offer maximum cooperation in the ongoing review process, emphasizing that Nigerians urgently need decisive and well-funded action to address the country’s security challenges.
It also expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their cooperation and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that national security institutions are properly funded in the interest of peace and stability.
