By IKENNA OSUOHA

The Deputy Spokesperson for the House of Representatives, Rep. Philip Agbese, has reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism and banditry.

Agbese gave the assurance at a news conference on Saturday in Abuja.

The lawmaker said the 10th National Assembly remained committed to providing the necessary legislative backing, funding and oversight required to strengthen the capacity of the military and other security agencies.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Agbese was reacting to the recent attack launched by terrorists against the troops of the Nigerian Army in Benisheikh, Borno, leading to the death of Brig.-Gen Oseni Braimah and others.

He acknowledged that Nigeria is currently facing complex security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crimes.

Agbese assured of the legislature's determination to work closely with the executive to address the situation.

“The national assembly will stand firmly with our armed forces and all security agencies to defeat terrorists and bandits threatening the peace and unity of our country,” he said.

The deputy spokesperson commended the courage and sacrifices of troops on the frontline, describing them as patriots who had continue to risk their lives to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity.

He reiterated the House of Representatives’ continued prioritisation of defence and security in its legislative agenda, including ensuring adequate budgetary provisions, improving welfare for military personnel and strengthening intelligence gathering mechanisms.

According to him, lawmakers are also committed to ensuring robust oversight of defence spending to ensure transparency, accountability and effective utilisation of resources allocated to the sector.

The lawmaker emphasised that prioritising funding for the armed forces was vital to winning the ongoing war against insurgency and terrorism in the country.

“We understand that the government cannot afford everything at the same time, which is true.

“Nevertheless, timely release of funds for procurement of critical defence assets will go a long way in addressing threats against the country,” he said.

Agbese urged Nigerians to support the armed forces by providing timely and credible information that could aid security operations, noting that the fight against insecurity required collective efforts.

“The battle against terrorism and banditry is not for the military alone. It requires the cooperation of all Nigerians. Citizens must remain vigilant and support security agencies with useful information,” he added.

Agbese expressed optimism that with sustained collaboration between the legislature, executive and security agencies, Nigeria would overcome its current security challenges and restore lasting peace in affected communities. (NAN)