Nigerian Senate Approves State Police Framework for Security

On Thursday, the Nigerian Senate, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, endorsed a framework for state police to strengthen Nigeria's security architecture and enhance the protection of lives and property nationwide. The proposal aims to ensure effective participation in state security while maintaining national standards through a central regulatory mechanism.

Akpabio noted that despite improvements in the nation's security situation, collaborative efforts are required to address emerging threats, particularly attacks on soft targets such as schools, churches, and mosques. He emphasized the need to curtail insurgent activities and stressed that no part of Nigeria is currently free from terrorist control.

The Senate also expressed support for increasing funding for police infrastructure and equipment, proposing to raise the allocation for the police trust fund from 0.5% to 1% of the federal government's revenue. Akpabio commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and tax reforms, as necessary measures for sustainable economic growth.