DSS opposes foreign funding for proposed Security Trust Fund, citing national security concerns

The DSS warned that foreign contributions could expose sensitive intelligence operations to external influence and compromise Nigeria’s national security. During a public hearing organized by the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Emmanuel Duabry, representing the DSS, endorsed the legislation but proposed amendments, including deleting clauses that permit grants, donations, and endowments from international organizations. The DSS argued that accepting foreign funding could undermine institutional independence and expose intelligence activities to external scrutiny, potentially compromising intelligence methods, procurement processes, and deployment strategies.

They also highlighted the risk of foreign funding introducing external influence over domestic security priorities. Consequently, the DSS proposed that the Trust Fund should only receive local grants, donations, and endowments. The DSS described the proposed legislation as a significant step towards strengthening intelligence and security operations through sustainable financing, providing dedicated resources for intelligence gathering, counterterrorism operations, and rapid response to emerging threats, while reducing delays associated with conventional budgetary processes.

The agency also suggested changes to the funding str