This statement was made in Abuja on Wednesday.
Mr Badaru stated that the additional budget for 2023 aims to facilitate simultaneous operations across all theatres to eradicate insecurity promptly. This declaration was made during the defence of the ministry's budget at a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives committees on defence.
The minister expressed the ministry's commitment to preventing terrorists from relocating and continuing their nefarious activities. He expressed confidence in the federal government's ability to end the war but refrained from disclosing specific strategies.
Mr Badaru praised the committees for their consistent support in the ministry's efforts to combat insecurity. He noted that the ministry's N78.58 billion allocation for 2024 is an increase from the N62.9 billion allocated in 2023, and commended the National Assembly for its dedication to ending insecurity.
However, he called for an increase in overhead costs in the 2024 budget due to inflation and the rising cost of diesel. He appealed for assistance in increasing the ministry's overhead cost, citing high fuel consumption.
Ahmad Lawan, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence, assured that the joint committee would thoroughly examine the ministry's 2024 proposal. He emphasised that security is the foundation for other sectors such as education and the economy to function effectively, and advocated for more resources to be allocated to defence to address insecurity.
Mr Lawan stressed the importance of not only approving funds but also assessing how these funds have improved the security situation in the country. He commended the security agencies for their efforts to secure the country.
Babajimi Benson, the chairman of the House Committee on Defence, reiterated the National Assembly's commitment to investing in security to foster the country's growth and development. He mentioned that President Bola Tinubu has pledged to ensure the security of all Nigerians, regardless of their status.
Mr Benson assured that the committee would ensure that all allocated resources are utilised effectively. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the armed forces, including the recent bombing in Kaduna, and promised that the committees would ensure adequate funding within available resources to meet the military's needs.