CISLAC Decries Poor Impact of Investments on Defence Sector
Nigeria’s peace, security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity are threatened by persistent violent conflicts arising from traditional and non-traditional security threats.
This is according to a communique issued by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC)/Transparency International in Nigeria (TI-NIGERIA).
The communique was released to newsmen at the end of a ‘One-Day Workshop on Reforming the Nigerian Defence and Security Sector through Strengthening Mechanisms Fundamental for Effective Oversight Functions’, in Nasarawa State.
The workshop was organized with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands.
CISLAC observed that despite substantial public resources invested in the defence and security sector since the return of democratic governance in 1999, the impact of these investments remains questionable, with ongoing threats to peace and security.
It further noted that factors limiting oversight in the defence and security sector include inadequate funding, lack of capacity, corrupt budgeting and implementation, politicization, negative public image, and overall lack of transparency and accountability.
“However, the primary challenge lies in the sector’s general lack of capacity in fund management, budgeting, implementation, and the sector’s inherent political nature.
“Also, the lack of planning in the budgeting process and implementation contributes to weak civilian control over the defence and security sector”.
According to CISLAC, combating corruption requires addressing welfare concerns and improving the economy to provide security and stability.
The corruption-fighting Civil Society Organization, CSO, said: “Corruption persists despite the presence of oversight agencies such as the National Assembly, Judiciary, Auditor-General’s Office, Civil Society, and Ombudsman because the elites have yet to fully embrace the fight against corruption.
“Again, challenges to transparency and accountability in the defence and security sector include the lack of a robust legal framework, limited awareness and capacity, political interference, and resistance to change, among others”.
It however, emphasized the necessity of external institutions overseeing the defence and security sector, in line with democratic principles.
“Effective oversight will promote efficiency, professionalism, and ultimately enhance security in the country.
“Let’s also review the content of defence and security policy to embed a culture of transparency and accountability in the budgeting process”.
