The presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Seyi Makinde, has questioned the funding and planning behind the federal government’s proposed expansion of Army divisions. Speaking at the APM North-central Town Hall Meeting in Lafia, Nasarawa State capital, Makinde asked the administration of President Bola Tinubu to identify the provision made for the exercise in the 2026 budget. He emphasized that announcing the expansion without adequate financial and operational planning would not address persistent insecurity, particularly in the North-central.
Makinde, who is also the governor of Oyo State, stated that he could not find any item in the 2026 budget relating to the expansion of Army divisions. He urged the federal government to bring out the budget provision if it exists. According to him, tackling insecurity requires a clear funding structure, operational planning, and consultation with affected communities, rather than policy announcements alone. The federal government recently proposed establishing and expanding military formations to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
The APM candidate also criticized the federal government’s economic policies, questioning whether the increase in allocations to state governments from the Federation Account had translated into improved living conditions for Nigerians. He noted that despite increased allocations, Oyo State still depends on federal allocation for more than 80 per cent of its revenue. Makinde attributed the increase in dependence to what he described as the federal government’s “voodoo economy.”
Makinde outlined aspects of his party’s proposed agenda ahead of the 2027 presidential election, including a focus on security, education, the economy, and the country’s socio-political environment. He stated that his proposed “Reset Nigeria” agenda could be implemented within four years if elected. The agenda, he said, would bring about tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians.
The APM’s vice-presidential candidate, Lawal Daura, described the proposed reset as based on Nigerians’ demand for tangible improvements in their lives. He emphasized that the party’s approach would be based on sincerity, honesty, commitment, and results. Daura cited poverty and insecurity among the problems confronting Nigerians.
APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, highlighted the importance of the North-central region to Nigeria’s unity and development. He noted that the region faces challenges such as insecurity and poor roads. Dantalle also criticized the cost of petrol and electricity supply, urging Nigerians to demand accountability from the federal government.
The APM leaders used the town hall meeting to present their proposed policies and engage supporters and residents in the North-central ahead of the 2027 elections. Key points of the party’s agenda include a new security architecture, changes to the education system, and an economy driven by data, science, and logic.
Key points
- Seyi Makinde questions funding for proposed army expansion
- APM outlines "Reset Nigeria" agenda
- Party criticizes federal government's economic policies
