The Senate has expressed confidence that the persistent challenges of armed banditry and insurgency in the country will be brought to an end in 2026, pledging to review the 2026 budget to strengthen the capacity of the military and other security agencies.

Lawmakers stressed that the rising cases of killings, kidnappings and destruction of property must be urgently addressed and called on President Bola Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies to sustain coordinated operations until all criminal elements are dismantled.

Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja while responding to a point of order raised by Senator Garba Maidoki (APC, Kebbi South), the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, said the Senate shares the resolve to end insecurity across the country.

Akpabio recalled that on January 1, he had prayed publicly for an end to banditry and insurgency, expressing optimism that Nigerians would witness the defeat of criminal elements this year.

“By the grace of God, in 2026, it will not be the end of Nigeria or Nigerians; rather, Nigerians will see the end of 2026 and the end of banditry,” he said.

The Senate President acknowledged public frustration over continued attacks but explained that bandits often target vulnerable communities, noting that it is impractical to station military barracks in every village due to the vast size of the country.

According to him, security responses are sometimes reactive because attacks occur in remote locations. He, however, urged security agencies to intensify the use of modern technology, including sophisticated drones, to monitor hard-to-reach areas and improve surveillance.

Akpabio assured lawmakers that the National Assembly would consider their concerns during the review of the 2026 budget, with the aim of increasing support for the military and the National Orientation Agency to boost public awareness and encourage citizens to promptly report suspicious activities.