DSS opposes foreign funding of Nigeria’s security operations

The Department of State Services, DSS, has opposed the funding of Nigeria’s security operations by foreign entities, warning that such arrangements could threaten national sovereignty, operational secrecy, and institutional independence.

The position was presented during a public hearing held in Abuja by the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence on two proposed bills seeking to establish a DSS Security Trust Fund and a Strategic Intelligence Management Institute.

The representative of the DSS, Emmanuel Daubry, expressed support for the Security Trust Fund Bill, noting that it would provide sustainable funding for intelligence gathering, counterterrorism operations, personnel training, and the acquisition of modern security equipment.

He explained that the fund would also ensure the rapid availability of resources during emergencies such as terrorism attacks, civil unrest, and other security crises.

However, the DSS recommended clearer funding provisions and changes to the proposed governing board.

The agency specifically rejected foreign contributions to the trust fund, arguing that external funding could create obligations that may expose sensitive intelligence operations, procurement processes, and deployment strategies.

Daubry further warned that “foreign donors could influence domestic security priorities in ways that may not align with Nigeria’s unique security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping”.

On the proposed Strategic Intelligence Management Institute, the DSS cautioned that its functions could overlap with those of existing institutions.

The agency suggested that the institute’s mandate should be limited to external intelligence, foreign intelligence operations, and international intelligence cooperation to avoid duplication.

The DSS also proposed amendments to relevant sections of the bill and called for revisions to its explanatory memorandum to reflect the recommended changes.