FG Raises Funding for Boko Haram Trials to N1.4bn in 2026 Budget

FG Raises Funding for Boko Haram Trials to N1.4bn in 2026 Budget

The Federal Government has significantly increased funding for the prosecution of terrorism-related cases, setting aside N1.371 billion in the 2026 budget for trials linked to Boko Haram and similar offences.

The allocation, captured under the Federal Ministry of Justice, marks a sharp rise from the N530 million approved for comparable prosecutions in 2025, reflecting what appears to be a stronger fiscal commitment to tackling insurgency through the judicial system.

An analysis of the 2026 Appropriation Bill shows that the provision; listed as “Boko Haram, terrorism and related cases” represents an increase of about 159 per cent year-on-year.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had on Friday assented to the N68.32 trillion 2026 budget, which includes N5.41 trillion for defence and security, underscoring the administration’s continued focus on addressing insecurity nationwide.

Further breakdown indicates that the terrorism prosecution fund now takes a larger share of the Ministry of Justice’s capital expenditure. The N1.371 billion earmarked for 2026 accounts for roughly 14.1 per cent of the ministry’s headquarters capital budget of N9.725 billion, compared to 7.9 per cent in 2025.

Overall, the ministry’s headquarters allocation rose from N19.861 billion in 2025 to N23.685 billion in 2026, an increase of about 19.3 per cent.

Other major capital items in the ministry’s budget include renovation of office facilities, handling of international cases, liability management, and reforms in the criminal justice system.

Legal and security observers say the increased allocation may be driven by a combination of rising caseloads, higher operational costs and the complexity of prosecuting terrorism-related offences.

Speaking earlier on the need for urgency in such cases, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, called on the judiciary to fast-track trials involving terrorism and other violent crimes.

“At this solemn juncture in our national life, it is impossible to ignore the grave challenge of insecurity… The courts can ensure that those who threaten peace and stability are held accountable,” he said, stressing the importance of “firm, consistent and courageous adjudication.”

Recent proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja highlight the scale of ongoing prosecutions. In April, five terrorism convicts were sentenced to various prison terms, including up to 20 years, while a fresh batch of about 500 suspects entered trial.

Government figures show that out of 508 terrorism-related cases handled in a recent phase of trials, 386 convictions were secured, with eight defendants discharged, two acquitted and 112 cases adjourned.

Fagbemi noted that the next phase of hearings is scheduled for mid-June, adding, “We were able to secure 386 convictions… while others have been adjourned to the next session.”

Security experts, however, have urged caution and accountability in the use of the increased funding.

A retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Wilson Inalegwu, said effective prosecution must go hand-in-hand with improved coordination among security agencies.

“The government must be serious about prosecuting these terrorists. Anyone apprehended should be taken to court,” he said, warning that weak processes could undermine the fight against insurgency.

He also raised concerns about the condition of correctional facilities, noting that inadequate security could lead to prison breaks. “Even if you prosecute and jail them, there is a need to intensify security at custodial centres,” he added.

On his part, security analyst Chidi Omeje stressed the need for transparency in how the funds are deployed.

“Justice is something that must be handled carefully. We want to see these suspects tried quickly,” he said, cautioning that prolonged detention could expose facilities to attacks or escapes.

Both experts agreed that while increased funding is necessary, its impact will depend largely on transparency, efficient utilisation and synergy among the police, judiciary and correctional services. (Punch)