… Senate President says lawmakers are considering framework for regulated state police system
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has assured President Bola Tinubu of the National Assembly’s support in strengthening security and advancing reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s economy.
Akpabio made the remarks on Thursday after leading principal officers of the Senate on a Sallah homage to Tinubu at his Lagos residence.
According to him, the President cannot tackle the country’s challenges alone, stressing that the National Assembly would continue to support efforts to improve security across the country.
The Senate President said Nigeria’s security situation has improved compared to previous years marked by widespread insurgency and bomb attacks, although he acknowledged that attacks on vulnerable locations such as schools, churches and mosques remain a concern.
He disclosed that lawmakers were exploring the creation of a regulated state police system under a national framework to enable states participate more actively in securing lives and property.
Akpabio explained that the proposed structure would include a national state police commission responsible for regulating conduct, training and promotions to prevent abuse.
He also urged citizens to support security agencies by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities within their communities.
On the economy, Akpabio praised Tinubu’s reforms, saying they had placed Nigeria on the path of growth and stability.
He noted that the administration inherited major economic challenges, including multiple exchange rates, fuel subsidies and unsustainable borrowing practices.
According to him, reforms introduced by the government have helped eliminate fuel queues and improve economic coordination.
The Senate President also highlighted major infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Lagos-Badagry-Sokoto road corridor, describing them as transformative initiatives capable of boosting agriculture and economic growth.
Akpabio further revealed that the National Assembly was considering increasing statutory funding for the Nigeria Police Trust Fund from 0.5 per cent to one per cent of federation revenue allocation to improve police infrastructure and equipment.
He added that the Senate delegation also prayed for peace in the country and the safe release of Nigerians still in captivity.