Former Chief of Army Staff Tukur Buratai has responded to critics. He addressed questions about the allocation of the $1 billion defence fund. He said the National Economic Council approved the funds. He said they were disbursed through ministry accounts. They did not pass through military command accounts.
The National Economic Council approved the $1 billion defence fund in 2017. It was drawn from the Excess Crude Account. The fund was meant to procure military equipment. Critics questioned its management. In 2020, the House of Representatives investigated how the money was spent. The probe was inconclusive. The fund has been a recurring issue in defence debates.
Buratai said the fund was transparent. He said the National Economic Council approved it. He said the Ministry of Defence and service headquarters managed the procurement. He said no funds went to personal accounts. He challenged critics to produce evidence of mismanagement. He said the military used the funds to acquire equipment. He listed aircraft, vehicles and weapons. He said the purchases improved operational capacity.
The response comes amid renewed scrutiny. The 2026 budget includes defence allocations. The military faces ongoing security challenges. Transparency remains a concern.
Winners: Buratai, who defends his record. The military, which gains context. The government, if the explanation satisfies critics. Losers: Critics who allege mismanagement. Taxpayers, if full accounting is not provided. The military, if trust is not restored.
Bottom Line: Buratai defended the $1 billion fund. He said it was approved and disbursed properly. Critics want more evidence. The military needs equipment. Transparency matters.