31 States Spend N252bn on Security in Six Months

At least 31 state governments spent an estimated N252.26 billion on security-related activities between January and June 2026, amid persistent killings, kidnappings, banditry and other criminal activities across the country.

An analysis of state budget performance reports obtained from Open Nigerian States showed that Kogi recorded the highest expenditure at N34.67 billion, followed by Plateau with N23.69 billion and Bauchi with N22.35 billion.

The three states accounted for about N80.70 billion, or 32 per cent, of the total expenditure captured.

The spending came amid continued insecurity nationwide. The National Human Rights Commission reported 651 kidnapping incidents and 492 killings between January and March 2026.

The spending has raised questions about the effectiveness and accountability of security funds.

A former Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Wilson Inalegwu, called for a result-based approach to security spending.

He said governors should require Commissioners of Police to prepare annual policing plans identifying security challenges, resources required and measurable targets for reducing crime.

He said the plans would allow governors to assess whether security spending was producing results.

The Executive Chairman of the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, Debo Adeniran, said Nigerians had a right to demand accountability for security expenditure.

Similarly, the Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, called for greater transparency and oversight of security spending.

Questions remain over whether the increased spending is translating into better security and protection for Nigerians.