CDS Backs Bills for Early Voting, Sustainable Funding for Military
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, yesterday expressed strong support for two critical proposed legislations poised to significantly impact the welfare and operational capabilities of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
This commitment was made during a visit by Distinguished Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
A statement issued by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, said Senator Yar’adua’s visit served to brief the CDS on a proposed bill currently before the National Assembly, which seeks to introduce early voting for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, other security agencies, and essential election duty staff.
Collaborating with the civil society organization Yiaga Africa, Senator Yar’adua highlighted that an estimated two million personnel were deployed during the last general elections but were unfortunately disenfranchised due to the nature of their assignments. The proposed bill aims to rectify this gap by enabling these crucial personnel to cast their votes ahead of general elections.
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The senator extended an invitation to the Defence Headquarters to present their formal position during the upcoming public hearing on this significant legislation, emphasizing the importance of their input.
Beyond the early voting initiative, Senator Yar’adua also informed the CDS about a second vital bill, which has already passed its second reading in the Senate. This legislation aims to provide alternative and sustainable funding mechanisms for the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Senator Yar’adua requested the active participation of the Defence Headquarters in the forthcoming public hearing for this bill as well.
In his response, General Musa conveyed his deep appreciation to Senator Yar’adua for sponsoring these two impactful bills that directly address the effectiveness and welfare of the Armed Forces.
The CDS assured the Senator of the full support and cooperation of the Defence Headquarters, reaffirming the military’s readiness to actively participate in the public hearings and provide all necessary input to ensure the successful passage of both legislations.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated its unwavering commitment to all initiatives designed to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic processes and enhance the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
by PRNigeria
