The Nigerian Senate has approved critical amendments to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund Act, effectively extending the fund’s lifespan and reaffirming its role in strengthening police capacity, infrastructure, and national security operations.
During plenary on Tuesday, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele led discussions on the proposed amendment, which received unanimous approval. He noted that the original Act, passed in 2019, was designed to operate for six years but only became functional in 2022. Without this amendment, the fund would be legally dissolved this month.
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Bamidele stressed the urgency of the extension, emphasizing that the fund has been instrumental in equipping the police force, enhancing training programs, and supporting officers’ welfare and infrastructure development. He warned that allowing the fund to expire would be a setback to the progress made in reforming and professionalizing the Nigerian Police Force.
He explained that the proposed changes are not only about legality but about continuity and sustainability, particularly in light of the country’s growing security concerns. The Trust Fund has helped bridge critical gaps in police logistics, personnel training, and operational readiness, making its continuation a national priority.
Deputy Minority Leader Senator Lere Oyewumi echoed Bamidele’s concerns, stressing that extending the Trust Fund would ensure that the ongoing reform and modernization of the police do not suffer disruption. The Senate subsequently gave the bill its approval, with Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin presiding over the session.
With this amendment, the Nigeria Police Trust Fund is now set to continue beyond its initial six-year window, reinforcing the federal government’s commitment to security, police professionalism, and public safety.
