The Senate has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive lawmaking and evidence-based policymaking as stakeholders gathered for a public hearing on the Nigerian Police Trust Fund (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2026.
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, made the declaration while opening the one-day public hearing on the proposed legislation aimed at strengthening the legal and operational framework of the Nigerian Police Trust Fund.
Represented by Senator Osita Ngwu, Akpabio said the Senate values the contributions of stakeholders and assured that all submissions made during the hearing would be carefully considered to ensure the legislation reflects the aspirations and interests of Nigerians.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to security sector reforms and institutional strengthening, noting that the decision to sponsor the bill underscores the importance of sustainable funding and effective governance in enhancing policing and national security.
The Senate President also praised officers and men of the Nigerian Police Force for their sacrifices in protecting lives and property despite numerous operational challenges.
He said policymakers have a responsibility to ensure police personnel are adequately equipped, properly trained and sufficiently supported to carry out their duties effectively.
According to him, the public hearing provides an opportunity for stakeholders to collectively shape the future of an institution that plays a crucial role in supporting policing across the country.
Earlier, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Abdulhamid Malam Madori, urged participants to make frank, constructive and patriotic contributions that would strengthen the bill and improve the effectiveness of the Police Trust Fund.
In his presentation, Executive Secretary of the Police Trust Fund, Mohammed Sheidu, said the Fund was established to address longstanding funding gaps within the Nigeria Police Force.
He explained that implementation of the existing Act had exposed legislative, structural and funding limitations that require a more robust legal framework.
Sheidu noted that the security challenges facing Nigeria today, including banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, cybercrime, organised criminal networks and emerging technological threats, are far more complex than they were in 2019, necessitating increased investment in policing.
He said the proposed legislation would provide a stronger institutional framework to support the Federal Government’s security agenda through sustainable funding for police modernisation, training, technology infrastructure and personnel welfare.
According to him, improved security would encourage investment, boost agricultural productivity, reduce inflationary pressures associated with insecurity and enhance the quality of life of Nigerians.
Representatives of the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Ministry of Police Affairs supported the passage of the bill without reservations.
The Inspector-General of Police, represented by Deputy Inspector-General Muhammad Abdul Sulaiman, also backed the bill but proposed amendments, particularly on the composition of the Trust Fund Board and the statutory role of the IGP.
Speaking during the hearing, Senator Abdul Ningi urged the police authorities to strictly implement provisions aimed at improving officers’ welfare.
He expressed concern over the poor welfare conditions of many personnel, arguing that inadequate allowances and poor support systems often expose officers to unethical practices while on duty.
The public hearing attracted key stakeholders from the security sector, government institutions and civil society groups, all of whom contributed to deliberations on the future of police funding and reforms in Nigeria.
Bashir M
