Senate Approves Extension Of Police Trust Fund To 12 Years
The Nigerian Senate has approved a bill to extend the lifespan of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund from six to twelve years.
The bill, sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, seeks to sustain ongoing reforms and support for the Nigeria Police Force through continued funding for training, equipment, and infrastructure.
Bamidele, in his lead debate, explained that although the Trust Fund was established in 2019, it only became operational in 2022.
He stressed the need for swift legislative action to prevent any disruption to the support the Fund provides to the police.
He said the extension would consolidate the progress already made in enhancing police capabilities and enable the Force to better address Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
According to Bamidele, the Trust Fund has been instrumental in providing modern equipment, logistics, improved welfare for personnel, and capacity development for officers.
He also clarified that the amendment would not place any additional burden on the federal government’s finances.
To fast-track the process, the Senate suspended relevant standing orders under Rule 78(1) and passed the bill through second and third readings on the same day.
The bill now awaits concurrence by the House of Representatives before being sent to the President for assent.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
