The Nigerian Senate has approved the extension of the operational lifespan of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund from six to twelve years.
The move aims to ensure the continued provision of training, security equipment, and infrastructure support for the Nigeria Police Force.
The bill, sponsored by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, was fast-tracked through the legislative process, scaling both the first and second readings on the same day.
In his lead debate, Senator Bamidele explained that the agency was established in 2019 but only became operational in 2022; therefore, it requires an urgent extension.
He added that lawmakers must act swiftly to avoid any disruption in the critical support the Trust Fund provides to the Nigerian Police.
Bamidele said the extension will consolidate the gains made so far in police reforms and ensure that the Force is well-positioned to tackle evolving security threats.
He emphasized that the Trust Fund has been instrumental in providing training and capacity development for police officers, procuring modern equipment and logistics support, rehabilitating and expanding police infrastructure, and Initiating Initiatives to improve the health and welfare of police personnel.
Senator Bamidele further clarified that the proposed amendment will not impose any additional financial burden on the federal treasury.
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He appealed to his colleagues for their support in ensuring the seamless continuation of the Trust Fund’s activities, which he described as essential to sustaining police modernization efforts in Nigeria.
To facilitate the bill’s swift passage, the Senate invoked Rule 78(1) to suspend its relevant standing orders, allowing for the second reading, third reading, and final passage on the same day.
With its passage in the Senate, the bill now awaits concurrence by the House of Representatives before it can be forwarded to the President for possible assent.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
