GLOBAL MILITARY TRENDS AND DOMESTIC POLICY RESPONSES: LESSONS FOR NIGERIA’S DEFENSE BUDGETING AND ECONOMIC RESILIENCE

This study examines the relationship between national defense expenditure and economic development in Nigeria, with a focus on the implications of persistent insecurity and global military spending trends. Using historical data spanning 1960 to 2022, the study highlights the volatility and magnitude of Nigeria’s defense spending relative to GDP, revealing that military allocations often exceed investments in key development sectors such as education and infrastructure. Empirical insights suggest that while defense spending is essential for maintaining stability, its structure, efficiency, and developmental orientation determine its impact on economic growth. The analysis also situates Nigeria within the global context, considering lessons from the Ukraine crisis, regional security challenges, and the role of economic growth in driving military expenditure. Policy recommendations emphasize strategic budget planning, transparency, investment in defense-related infrastructure, and preventive socio-economic measures to reduce insecurity. Overall, the study underscores the need to balance national security priorities with sustainable economic development to optimize the use of scarce resources.