The Nigerian Senate has called for the immediate creation of a military base in Hong Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa State, in response to renewed Boko Haram attacks that have destabilised parts of the North East region.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent national importance tabled during plenary on Wednesday, highlighting a surge in violent insurgent activity in Hong and Gombi LGAs. Lawmakers noted that multiple coordinated attacks since February 2025 have resulted in dozens of deaths and the displacement of thousands.
Five Attacks Since February
Senator Iya Abbas, who sponsored the motion, revealed that Hong LGA has suffered five major attacks in recent months. He stressed the urgent need for a permanent military presence in the area to stem the wave of terror and improve security for local communities.
Lawmakers praised the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian Army and other security forces but insisted that current deployments were insufficient to counter the persistent threat.
Debate Over Legislative Powers
The motion sparked a constitutional debate on the Senate’s role in directing military strategy.
Senator Seriake Dickson raised an objection, arguing that establishing a military base falls under the jurisdiction of the President and the executive branch. He cautioned against legislative overreach in matters of national defence.
His objection was countered by Senator Wasiu Eshilokun, who cited Section 217(2)(c) of the Nigerian Constitution, which allows the National Assembly to contribute to decisions concerning the military’s role and structure.
“To say the National Assembly has no power would be a misinterpretation,” Eshilokun said. “We have not crossed the line.”
The Senate ultimately maintained that it was within its constitutional rights to recommend the establishment of a base, even though the final decision rests with the executive.
Rising Insecurity in the North East
The call for a new military base comes amid broader concerns over resurgent Boko Haram activity in the North East, despite years of counter-insurgency operations. Residents in the affected communities continue to face threats to life, property, and livelihoods as attackers target villages and local infrastructure.
The proposed military base in Hong, if approved, would serve as a strategic stronghold to reinforce operations, improve response times, and safeguard civilians in a region long plagued by insurgent violence.
