House of Reps Open Public Hearing on Defence Reform Bills

ABUJA — The House of Representatives on Monday began a two-day public hearing on a series of defence reform bills aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s military institutions, improving personnel welfare and enhancing the Armed Forces’ ability to address evolving security challenges.

Speaker of the House Tajudeen Abbas said the proposed legislation was intended to modernise the country’s defence framework and equip the military to respond more effectively to threats such as insurgency, banditry, separatist violence, piracy and cybercrime.

The bills, currently before the National Assembly, include a proposal to repeal the Armed Forces Act and replace it with a new Nigerian Military Force Bill designed to reform military administration, command structures and operational efficiency.

Lawmakers are also considering a bill to establish an Armed Forces Farms and Ranches Scheme to support food production and strengthen logistics for military operations.

Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Babajimi Benson, said the reform package addresses key areas including professional military education, joint operations, healthcare services, strategic research, governance reforms, veterans’ welfare and inclusiveness within the Armed Forces.

Benson said the public hearing would allow stakeholders to contribute recommendations that could improve the proposed legislation before its final consideration by lawmakers.

Military authorities, security experts, government agencies, civil society organisations and other stakeholders are expected to make presentations during the hearing.

The House said the outcome of the consultations would help shape reforms aimed at improving military readiness, strengthening personnel welfare and enhancing Nigeria’s overall security architecture.

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A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.