The federal government has set aside N1.371 billion in the 2026 budget for the prosecution of Boko Haram, terrorism and related criminal cases.
This marks a sharp increase from the N530 million approved for the same purpose in 2025.
The allocation is contained in the 2026 Appropriation Act recently signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, who approved a total spending plan of N68.32 trillion for the fiscal year.
The latest provision represents a rise of about 159 per cent year-on-year, underlining the administration’s continued focus on combating insecurity through both military operations and the justice system.
The broader 2026 budget also earmarks N5.41 trillion for defence and security, accounting for roughly 7.9 per cent of total expenditure.
Further checks show the terrorism prosecution fund now takes a larger share of the federal ministry of justice’s capital spending.
The N1.371 billion allocation represents about 14.1 per cent of the ministry headquarters’ capital budget of N9.725 billion, compared with 7.9 per cent in 2025.
The increase comes amid renewed calls for faster trials of terrorism suspects and stronger accountability in the criminal justice process.
Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice had earlier urged the judiciary to accelerate cases involving terrorism, kidnapping and violent crimes.
“At this solemn juncture in our national life, it is impossible to ignore the grave challenge of insecurity that confronts our country,” he said.
He added that the courts must help ensure that those threatening peace and stability are held accountable, while impunity is dismantled.
Recent mass trials at the federal high court in Abuja resulted in hundreds of convictions.
According to the Attorney-General, 386 convictions were secured from 508 terrorism-related cases, while eight defendants were discharged, two acquitted and 112 matters adjourned.
“In total, we brought about 508 cases. Of these 508, we were able to secure 386 convictions,” he said.
Security experts have welcomed the funding increase but called for transparency and better coordination among security agencies, the courts and correctional services.
Wilson Inalegwu, retired assistant inspector-general of police said the government must show seriousness in prosecuting suspects and ensuring correctional facilities are secure.
“There is a need to monitor how this huge amount is allocated and spent. It shouldn’t become a windfall for some individuals,” he said.
Security analyst Chidi Omeje also stressed the need for speedy trials, warning that prolonged detention of suspects could create further security risks.
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