Senate pushes for military base in Kwara following surge in banditry, kidnappings

The Senate of Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to establish a permanent military base in Kwara State in response to escalating insecurity, particularly in forest-border zones where banditry, kidnappings, and criminal hideouts have become frequent occurrences. The appeal was made in recent plenary sessions during debates over motions submitted by lawmakers representing affected areas.

Lens News gathered that, lawmakers pointed out that certain Local Government Areas in Kwara, alongside neighbouring Niger State, have seen increasing attacks by criminal groups exploiting dense forest terrain. In one such motion, the Senate resolved to engage the Ministry of Defence to set up a military barrack in strategic LGAs such as Kaiama, Baruten, and others close to Kainji Lake and forest enclaves.

The Senate also called for a “comprehensive onslaught” on identified bandit enclaves, requesting military operations and improved surveillance to reclaim territory that has become “fortified” by criminals. Some senators described the affected forest zones as now operating with relative autonomy, posing serious threat to local populations.

Members unanimously agreed that a permanent military presence would not only offer immediate security relief but also act as deterrence, reduce response times to attacks, protect farmlands, and stem displacement of residents.

The Senate requested that the Federal Government deploy adequate resources for infrastructure, troop deployment, logistics, and liaison with local authorities in affected communities. It mandated relevant committees especially Defence, Internal Security, and Finance to follow up and ensure that the military base proposal is budgeted for and executed without delay.

The resolution reflects growing pressure on government at all levels to respond decisively to security threats in rural border areas. Local communities have expressed relief at the Senate’s action, saying it validates long-standing calls for protection, especially for vulnerable farming and trading populations.