Two million security personnel insufficient to protect 200 million Nigerians, says CoAS
By Kunle Sanni
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has emphasized the significant security challenges facing Nigeria, stating that it is unrealistic to expect two million security personnel to adequately protect a population exceeding 200 million.
Lagbaja made the remark while delivering the 2024 Distinguished Personality Lecture in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Tuesday.
He highlighted the growing security demands across the country and the need for a more comprehensive approach to safeguarding Nigeria’s vast and diverse population.
“The sheer number of security personnel is insufficient to meet the demands of protecting over 200 million citizens,” Lagbaja stated, underscoring the pressure on security forces to combat rising threats, including terrorism, banditry, and communal violence.
The army chief called for enhanced cooperation between security agencies and the public, stressing that citizens play a crucial role in maintaining peace and order.
He also pointed out the need for technological advancements and increased investment in intelligence gathering to bolster security efforts.
Lagbaja’s comments come amid ongoing concerns over the country’s security architecture and calls for reforms to better address Nigeria’s complex and evolving threats.
“In a country of over 200 million people, it is unrealistic to expect security agencies, totalling around two million, including an army of just over 100,000 active personnel without a reserve force, to secure the entire population,” Lagbaja said.
He further emphasized the military’s dependence on imported defense equipment, given the nation’s underdeveloped industrial base.
“We import over 90 percent of our military needs,” he said, noting that despite some local production efforts, the country’s dependence on foreign military supplies remains overwhelming.
The army chief also voiced concerns about the insufficient financing of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), arguing that this seriously impairs the military’s ability to conduct operations.
“The pursuit of national development alongside national security is a costly endeavor, as defence policy is capital-intensive,” he said.
