Senate Advances Police Trust Fund Bill for Second Reading

On Tuesday, the Nigerian Senate passed the Police Trust Fund Bill for a second reading, which proposes to repeal the existing Nigeria Police Trust Fund Act of 2019 and establish a new legal framework aimed at strengthening the funding for the Nigeria Police Force. The proposed legislation, titled the Nigeria Police Trust Fund Bill 2026 (SB 1030), aims to provide sustainable financing for police equipment, training, and welfare.

During the heated debate, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe North) raised concerns that the proposed 0.5% deduction from the federal account could render the bill null and void, referencing a previous arrangement that was set aside by the court. Senator Godswill Akpabio emphasized the need for broad consensus to improve police funding while ensuring compliance with constitutional law.

The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Police Affairs for further consideration, with a report expected back within two weeks.