The Department of State Services (DSS) has strongly opposed the funding of Nigeria’s security operations by foreign entities, citing risks to national sovereignty, operational secrecy, and institutional independence.
The position was articulated during a public hearing in Abuja organised by the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence on two bills seeking to establish a DSS Security Trust Fund and a Strategic Intelligence Management Institute.
Representing the DSS, Emmanuel Daubry expressed support for the Security Trust Fund Bill, describing it as a vital mechanism for ensuring sustainable funding for intelligence gathering, counterterrorism operations, personnel training, and procurement of modern security equipment.
He noted that the fund would enable rapid deployment of resources during emergencies, including terrorism attacks, civil unrest, and other security crises. The agency, however, called for clearer provisions on funding sources and adjustments to the composition of the proposed governing board.
The DSS firmly rejected any foreign contributions to the trust fund. According to Daubry, external funding could create obligations that compromise sensitive intelligence operations, procurement processes, and deployment strategies.
“Foreign donors could influence domestic security priorities in ways that may not align with Nigeria’s unique security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping,” he warned.
On the proposed Strategic Intelligence Management Institute, the DSS raised concerns over potential overlap with existing institutions. The agency recommended restricting the institute’s mandate to external intelligence, foreign intelligence operations, and international cooperation to prevent duplication of functions.
The DSS further proposed specific amendments to relevant sections of the bills and revisions to the explanatory memorandum to incorporate its recommendations.
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