Former Senator Shehu Sani has condemned the Nigerian military for allegedly misappropriating funds designated for national defence by channeling them into non-military projects such as hotels, shopping complexes, and universities.
During an interview on Politics Today, a programme on Channels Television aired Friday night, Sani expressed concern that the misallocation of defence budgets undermines efforts to combat insecurity across the country.
He stressed that all funds allocated for defence should be strictly directed toward combating terrorism and banditry.
“Money meant for defence should be spent solely on enhancing security,” Sani stated. “It should not be diverted to construct commercial facilities like plazas and hotels under the guise of supporting military personnel or their families.”
Sani highlighted the troubling contrast between the under-resourced conditions faced by soldiers in conflict zones and the growing number of non-essential projects being undertaken by military institutions.
“Most of our security agencies now operate markets and shopping malls. I’ve even heard of them running universities,” he remarked.
He warned that such diversions weaken Nigeria’s ability to effectively address security threats and send the wrong signal at a time when the country remains embroiled in a prolonged battle against insurgency.
“Nigeria has been engaged in a war against banditry for over ten years,” he said. “And while we share this challenge with neighboring countries like Niger Republic, it’s clear that talking alone won’t solve the issue. What we need is decisive action.”
Sani emphasized that defeating terrorism is a long-term process, and urged the government and military leadership to reassess their priorities.
“We must re-strategize and ensure that every resource is directed toward achieving success on the battlefield—not invested in luxury or commercial ventures,” he concluded.
