Thirty-five states have earmarked a total of N214 billion in their 2025 budgets for local security initiatives, defense measures, and the acquisition of arms and equipment.
Despite these substantial allocations, insecurity continues to persist, with at least 367 individuals killed during Yuletide and Sallah celebrations between 2019 and 2025.
The state budgets, as compiled by Open States, a BudgIT-backed platform for government budget transparency, highlight the significant financial commitment to combating insecurity. However, concerns remain about the effectiveness of these measures, as criminal activities, including kidnappings and armed attacks, continue to plague the nation.
While security is primarily a federal responsibility, the growing wave of kidnapping, robbery, and violent attacks has compelled state governors to establish internal security outfits to curb the menace. However, these efforts have yet to yield the desired results, as criminals continue to operate with impunity.
In recent incidents, at least 30 people were killed in attacks across Ondo, Benue, and Nasarawa, prompting urgent calls for government intervention. In Ondo, nine surveyors were kidnapped, while two residents were abducted, and four others sustained severe injuries in Edo. Armed assailants attacked villages, leaving destruction and death in their wake.
Benue witnessed violent protests following the killing of three Civil Protection Guards by suspected herders. Similarly, a communal clash in Nasarawa escalated into full-blown violence, resulting in at least seven deaths, including that of a pregnant woman. Security forces have since arrested two suspects and increased patrols to restore order.
In Uromi, Edo State, the brutal murder of 16 travelers last week has sparked national outrage and fears of reprisal attacks. Authorities have so far arrested 14 suspects in connection with the incident.
Budget Breakdown for Security Expenditure
A breakdown of state budgets reveals significant allocations for arms and security operations:
Abia: N554.58m for security equipment and arms.
Adamawa: N3.82bn for security enhancement.
Akwa-Ibom: N10.1bn for arms procurement.
Anambra: N2.73bn for security measures.
Borno: N1.92bn allocated for defense initiatives.
Delta: N2.84bn for security improvements.
Enugu: N11.41bn, one of the highest in the Southeast.
Imo: N820.42m for Homeland Security and Vigilance Ministry.
Kano: N1.42bn for security operations.
Kebbi: N21.81bn, the highest among northern states.
Lagos: N12.6bn for security infrastructure.
Ogun: N4.81bn, with Amotekun receiving N1.79bn.
Ondo: N7.07bn, of which Amotekun gets N7.06bn.
Osun: N1.525bn for state security.
Plateau: N7.36bn for security initiatives.
Rivers: The highest security allocation nationwide with N39.82bn.
Zamfara: N32.29bn in response to ongoing security threats.
President Tinubu’s Stand on Local Government and Security
President Bola Tinubu emphasized the importance of local governance in tackling insecurity. He noted that the degradation of the local government system has significantly hindered national security efforts.
“Local governments are the frontline defenders against insecurity as they are closest to the people and have intimate knowledge of their communities. Strengthening them is crucial in combating security threats,” Tinubu stated.
Between 2019 and 2025, over 367 individuals were killed in attacks during Christian and Muslim festivities. Data from the Nigeria Security Tracker and media reports indicate that Edo, Rivers, Plateau, and Benue have been hotspots for such violence.
Some of the deadliest attacks include:
December 2023: Over 150 killed in Plateau on Christmas Eve.
December 2024: 47 Christians murdered in Benue on Christmas Day.
January 2025: 14 churchgoers killed in Rivers after a midnight service.
March 2025: 16 travelers lynched in Uromi, Edo, en route to Kano for Eid celebrations.
August 2019: 75 Shiite members killed during Ashura processions across Sokoto, Kaduna, Gombe, and Katsina.
August 2021: 23 Muslim faithful killed in Jos while returning from a festival.
Amid the grim security situation, civil society organizations are urging the federal government to take concrete steps in addressing the escalating violence. They advocate for thorough investigations, prosecution of perpetrators, and adequate support for victims’ families.
The pressing question remains: Will the N214bn allocated by states significantly curb insecurity, or will the cycle of violence persist? The effectiveness of these security measures will be closely monitored in the months ahead.
