The Nigerian Army has called on the Federal Government to explore additional ways of financing the country’s armed forces if it is to defeat the insurgents attempting to destabilize the country.
Chief of Accounts and Budget (army), Maj.-Gen. Abdullahi Muraina made this known at a training programme for the Nigerian Army Finance Corps Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned officers in Jaji.
He said, “Currently, budgetary allocation for the military is inadequate to meet the contemporary security challenges and also cater for the welfare of the Nigerian Army.”
“Apart from limitations of the envelope system, the Nigerian Army is enmeshed in the bureaucratic bottlenecks for funding approvals for military operations.
“This calls for a review as the increasing speed at which the effects of conflicts appear in the operational environment will continue to challenge commanders.
“It is our humble appeal that government could evolve other means of funding and supporting military operations other than the normal budgetary allocations.
“Such means include but not limited to strategic cooperation and liason with other civil industries for the production of uniforms and other equipment.
“A special operation fund could be included in defence budget and placed under the control of the Chief of Army Staff.
“The increasing dynamic environment coupled with continued technogical development in the country and our immediate neighbours have spurred the Nigerian Army to place high premium on efficiency, proficiency and professionalism of officers and soldiers.”