A Case for Better Defence, Security in Nigeria
The Defence and Security sector has primary mandate for the design, planning, coordination and implementation of Nigeria’s defence and security sector policies.
But adequate and sustainable reform in the sector remains a collective responsibility, a group experts have said.
They made their observation known at a workshop on reforms in the Nigerian defence and security sector in Keffi, Nasarawa State.
The workshop was organized by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, in collaboration with Transparency International – Defence and Security Program.
The Executive Director of CISLAC/TI-Nigeria, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), opened the event with an address of welcome.
According to the experts, faulty recruitment process, inadequate human resource coupled with decentralized remuneration system and structure constitute major impediment to efficient service delivery by Defence and Security sector.
“Effective oversight mechanism and structure of the Defence and Security sector must take into cognizance proactive functionality and operational independence of the legislature, executive, judiciary and non-state actors.
“Unattended corruption and lack of operational independence of the oversight institutions delays accountability of efficient financial management within the Defence and Security sector.
“Financial mismanagement in the Defence and Security sector is enabled by non-release of funds as appropriated, opaque investment in commercial ventures, internal corruption, poor planning and mismatched policy making.
“There is need for strict adherence to Defence and Security doctrine to fully effect rules of engagement, operating procedures, weapon system and logistic activities, appropriate size and structure, financial management and budget systems, personnel policies and relationships.
“Also vital is strengthening operational and financial mechanisms for transparency and accountability in the Defence and Security sector, considering the principles of civilian oversight of the sector.
“Equally, we should also ensure the adequate respect for human rights of the citizens, while upholding the sanity and sanctity of the rules of law as laid down in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and international human rights convention.
“Above all, let’s fast-track the immediate amendment to the Audit Act by the National Assembly to address current trends and challenges, while enhancing efficient functionality of the Office of Auditor General of the Federation to fully interrogate financial management in the Defence and Security sector,” they said.
