The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has called for stronger collaboration between government institutions and citizens to overcome Nigeria’s security challenges.
He made the call on Friday while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the inauguration of projects by the Defence Headquarters in Abuja. The commissioned projects include new officers’ accommodation, the Niger Barracks Extension, and the link road connecting the Nigerian Army Resource Centre at Mambilla Barracks with AHQ Command Mess 1 and the Defence Intelligence Agency.
Speaker Abbas commended the Federal Government for its sustained commitment to national security and the welfare of the Armed Forces, noting that securing lives and property remains a collective responsibility.
His chief Press Secretary, Leke Olatunji Baiyewu, in a statement quoted him thus,
“Nigeria’s security depends on the cooperation of government and society,” he said. “Military action must go hand-in-hand with political dialogue, community participation, economic empowerment, and justice. We must share intelligence, deploy technology responsibly, and ensure our troops have the support they need. The National Assembly stands ready to work with the executive, the military, traditional leaders, and international partners to make this happen.”
The Speaker described the new projects as clear symbols of the nation’s commitment to the morale and operational efficiency of the men and women safeguarding the country.
“No army can perform at its best without decent housing, reliable infrastructure, and a humane work-life environment. These projects are investments in morale, cohesion, and preparedness,” he said.
Speaker Abbas paid glowing tribute to Nigeria’s Armed Forces, saluting their courage and sacrifices in the defence of the nation.
“Across the theatres of internal security and along our borders, our troops daily demonstrate courage and professionalism,” he said. “Many have paid the supreme price — we honour their memory and the families they left behind. To the wounded and those living with visible and invisible scars, Nigeria stands firmly with you.”
He noted that the Defence Headquarters’ leadership had shown commendable vision by prioritising welfare as the foundation of military strength, adding that the projects come at a time when the nation is redefining its approach to security management.
“Yes, our security challenges are complex and evolving, but Nigeria’s story is not just about threats — it is also about resilience, adaptation, and reform,” the Speaker noted.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for providing steady leadership in strengthening national defence capabilities.
“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the Federal Government continues to modernise our forces, improve intelligence coordination, foster unity of purpose, and upgrade conditions of service. What we are witnessing today reflects those ongoing efforts.”
On legislative efforts, Speaker Abbas said the 10th House of Representatives has made defence, internal security, and veterans’ welfare top priorities, working closely with the Senate to ensure responsible and impactful oversight.
“We have supported funding for platforms, munitions, communications, intelligence and reconnaissance systems, and force protection — while insisting on value for money and timely delivery,” he explained. “Beyond that, we’ve approved allocations for barracks rehabilitation, housing, healthcare, mental health support, and post-service transition. We are also pushing legislation to deepen professionalism, accountability, and welfare across the security sector.”
He listed several ongoing reforms, including strengthening the legal framework for joint operations, enhancing welfare and pensions for personnel and veterans, boosting local defence industries under the Made-in-Nigeria agenda, and improving logistics and maintenance systems.
“Our goal is simple and unwavering — to build a military that is well-led, well-equipped, and transparently governed. A military worthy of the great nation it serves,” the Speaker said.
He also paid special tribute to the families of military personnel, describing them as “silent heroes” behind every successful mission.
“Behind every soldier’s bravery stands a family — spouses, children, and parents who shoulder invisible burdens with dignity. When we invest in accommodation and infrastructure, we are also investing in them,” he said.
Earlier, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, lauded Speaker Abbas for his leadership and consistent support for the Armed Forces.
“Your Excellency, thank you for how you steer the affairs of the Federal House of Representatives. Your support has made our work much easier. We say a very big thank you, sir,” General Musa said.