Federal Government Increases Funding for Terrorism Prosecution
The Nigerian federal government has allocated N1.371 billion in the 2026 appropriation bill for the prosecution of Boko Haram, terrorism, and related cases under the Federal Ministry of Justice. This represents a significant increase from the N530 million approved for similar cases in 2025. The funding is part of the broader budget signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, which totals N68.32 trillion for the fiscal year.
Budget Breakdown and Security Focus
The 2026 budget includes N5.41 trillion for defense and security, highlighting the government’s continued focus on tackling insecurity. This allocation accounts for approximately 7.9 percent of the total budget. Additionally, the spending plan emphasizes capital investment, with about half of the budget directed toward infrastructure and development projects.
A comparison between the 2025 and 2026 budgets reveals a sharp increase in the allocation for terrorism-related prosecutions. The 2026 provision for “BOKO HARAM, TERRORISM AND RELATED CASES” stands at N1.371 billion, compared to N530 million in 2025 for “MANAGEMENT OF TERRORISM RELATED CASES/ISSUES.”
Ministry of Justice Budget Increase
The increased funding reflects a shift in priorities within the Federal Ministry of Justice. In 2026, the ministry’s headquarters received N23.685 billion, up from N19.861 billion in 2025. This represents an increase of about N3.825 billion, or roughly 19.3 percent.
The capital expenditure for the ministry also rose significantly. In 2026, N9.725 billion was allocated for capital spending, compared to N6.750 billion in 2025. The terrorism-related provision accounted for 14.1 percent of the 2026 capital budget, up from 7.9 percent in 2025.
Other major components of the capital expenditure include funding for the repair and renovation of the ministry’s headquarters and Lagos zonal office, execution of international cases, liability management, and reforms in the criminal justice sector.
Judicial Efforts and Mass Trials
Earlier in December 2025, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), urged the judiciary to expedite hearings in terrorism, human trafficking, and kidnapping cases. He emphasized the need for the judiciary to support national efforts to combat insecurity through firm and consistent adjudication.
In April 2026, the Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced five terrorism convicts to various jail terms, including 20 years imprisonment. Another suspect who pleaded not guilty to terrorism charges was remanded. The Federal Government initiated a fresh phase in the mass trial of 500 suspects.
Fagbemi reported that out of 508 terrorism-related cases prosecuted at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, 386 convictions were secured. Eight defendants were discharged, two were acquitted, and 112 cases were adjourned to the next phase of proceedings.
Expert Reactions and Concerns
Experts have called for a more coordinated and transparent approach to terrorism prosecution in Nigeria. Retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Wilson Inalegwu, and security analyst Chidi Omeje emphasized the need for speedy trials, improved prison security, and better utilization of funds allocated to the justice system.
Inalegwu warned that delays or weak processes could worsen insecurity. He stressed the importance of ensuring that funds earmarked for terrorism prosecution are used effectively, including strengthening correctional facilities and security agencies.
Omeje highlighted the importance of transparency in fund allocation, noting that while such spending is necessary, accountability remains key. He warned that prolonged detention of suspects poses risks, including possible prison attacks or escapes.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The ninth phase of the mass trials concluded in April 2026, with the tenth phase scheduled between June 15 and 18. The trials began on April 7 and ended on April 10, marking a significant step in the government’s efforts to address terrorism and related crimes.
