The House of Representatives has commenced consideration of a raft of defence-related bills aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s military architecture, improving the welfare of personnel and veterans, and enhancing the Armed Forces’ capacity to tackle emerging security threats.

Speaking at a two-day public hearing organised by the House Committee on Defence in Abuja on Monday, Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, said the proposed legislations were designed to address the country’s evolving security challenges and build a more resilient and effective military institution.

He said the bills were in line with the legislative agenda of the 10th House of Representatives and reflected lawmakers’ commitment to reforming the nation’s defence sector.

He added that emerging threats such as maritime piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, cyber warfare and the growing nexus between organised crime and terrorism had further underscored the need for comprehensive reforms.

The Speaker said among the key bills under consideration are the Armed Forces Farms and Ranches Scheme Bill, which seeks to link food security initiatives with military operations, particularly in conflict-prone agricultural communities.

Others include the Gender Representation in the Armed Forces Bill, aimed at promoting inclusiveness in military recruitment and service; the Nigerian Military Force Bill, which seeks to repeal and replace the Armed Forces Act to align military administration with contemporary realities; and the Veterans’ Federation of Nigeria Bill, intended to improve the welfare of retired military personnel.

Abbas urged stakeholders, including serving and retired military officers, civil society organisations, gender advocates, legal practitioners and members of the public, to actively participate in the legislative process.

Earlier, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, described the hearing as a critical platform for citizens and stakeholders to contribute to shaping laws that would strengthen Nigeria’s defence and security framework.

He said the bills address key issues such as military education and professional development, joint operational effectiveness, healthcare services, strategic research, military doctrine, veterans’ welfare, governance reforms, food security and gender inclusion. (Daily Trust)

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