Senate Advances Bill for New Nigeria Police Trust Fund

On Tuesday, the Nigerian Senate passed a bill during its second reading to repeal the Nigerian Police Trust Fund Establishment Act of 2019 and enact the Nigeria Police Trust Fund Act of 2026. The bill, led by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, aims to strengthen funding for the training and welfare of the Nigerian police force.

Bamidele noted that Nigeria faces complex and evolving security threats, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime, and communal unrest, which place enormous pressure on the police. The existing trust fund act has been criticized for its inadequate funding, obsolete equipment, and poor infrastructure, which adversely affect police morale.

The new bill proposes a comprehensive repeal and re-enactment to align with current realities and global best practices in security priorities. Key objectives include establishing robust transparency and accountability for the trust fund, ensuring predictable funding streams, and enhancing operational capacity through modern technology.

The bill also seeks to improve welfare for police personnel and support modern policing strategies.