The Department of State Services (DSS) has urged the House of Representatives to delete provisions that would permit international bodies to contribute to the proposed DSS Trust Fund, cautioning that such funding could pose risks to Nigeria’s national security.
The position was made known on Thursday at a public hearing convened by the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence on bills designed to enhance the operations of the DSS through sustainable funding, training and research initiatives.
Represented by Emmanuel Duabry, the DSS backed the bill establishing the Trust Fund but requested significant amendments, including the removal of clauses allowing grants, donations and endowments from foreign entities.
According to the Service, external funding could subject sensitive intelligence activities to foreign influence and undermine the agency’s autonomy.
“Allowing foreign funding for a security-related trust fund raises concerns about sovereignty, operational confidentiality and institutional independence,” Duabry said.
He explained that foreign donors could impose reporting and disclosure requirements capable of exposing sensitive details relating to intelligence operations, procurement processes and national security plans.
The DSS further cautioned that foreign contributions might shape Nigeria’s security agenda in ways that do not correspond with the nation’s pressing threats, including terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.
It consequently recommended that grants and donations to the Trust Fund be sourced exclusively from domestic organisations.
Despite the reservations, the Service described the proposed legislation as a crucial measure for guaranteeing stable funding for intelligence collection, counter-terrorism activities and urgent security interventions.
The DSS also advocated a more defined funding structure for the Trust Fund rather than leaving yearly allocations entirely at the discretion of the National Assembly.
It equally suggested adjustments to the composition of the governing board, including legal representation through a nominee of the Nigerian Bar Association.
The Service appealed to lawmakers to approve the bill, noting that it would enhance operational effectiveness and bolster national security.
The DSS additionally opposed another bill seeking the creation of a Strategic Intelligence Management Institute, maintaining that it would replicate the responsibilities of the existing National Institute for Security Studies.
