To strengthen the country’s defense capabilities, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has proposed for the appointment of a Chief of Space Staff.
At the conclusion of a two-day post-inauguration retreat for members of the House Committee on Defense, which was arranged by the National Defence College in Abuja, Kalu offered this suggestion.
Given the changing nature of contemporary warfare, he emphasized the need to move beyond conventional security measures and face the new dangers in space. He also indicated that the appointment of a Space Service Chief would be essential to preserving Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
What steps are we doing to address the issue of Space Service Chiefs in some countries? It is imperative that one be made. We have transcended the apparent.
“Warfare now occurs in space to some extent. Kalu said, “And I can assure you that if we ignore that, we will not be doing justice to the mandate of protecting this country’s territorial borders.”
In addition, Kalu promised to support the Armed Forces Trust Fund Bill and the Defence Industry Corporation (DICON) Bill, which are presently up for regazetting in the National Assembly. Despite being approved by the 9th Assembly, former President Muhammad Buhari did not sign these legislation.
Nonetheless, Kalu conveyed his assurance that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would give these laws first priority, highlighting their importance in promoting local content and producing necessary tools and equipment for the Armed Forces.
The Bills will encourage the production of locally made tools and equipment that are required to maintain the security of our country.
“Mr. President, you are urged to take action and to act quickly. in order for military industrial complexes to be built out of some of the current military financing contracts,” he stated.
On his part, the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, commended the leadership of the 10th House of Representatives and pledged the committee’s commitment to collaborate with the Defence sector in achieving the legislative agenda of the Green Chamber and addressing insecurity in Nigeria.
