In a decisive move to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, the Senate on Wednesday approved a N124.2 billion budget for the Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF) for the 2024 fiscal year.
The approval follows a thorough review and endorsement by the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, signaling renewed commitment to reforming and empowering the police force.
During plenary, Senator Yunus Akintunde (APC-Oyo), Vice-Chairman of the Police Affairs Committee, presented the committee’s report highlighting the budget’s strategic allocations. He confirmed the committee’s endorsement of the N124.2 billion figure, emphasizing that N1.2 billion is dedicated to personnel costs, while a lion’s share of N98.6 billion is targeted for capital expenditure aimed at transforming police infrastructure and operational capacity.
The approved budget is set to fund critical initiatives including such as, Comprehensive training programs to enhance police professionalism, Rehabilitation and construction of police stations across the country, Upgrading of key police facilities such as barracks and clinics and Procurement of compressed natural gas (CNG) and related assets to improve police mobility and operational efficiency
Senate President Godswill Akpabio hailed the budget as a landmark step towards a safer Nigeria.
He urged the Police Affairs Committee to exercise stringent oversight to ensure that every kobo allocated is prudently spent and directly translates into enhanced security on the ground.
“This budget is not just numbers on paper; it is a crucial investment in the safety and well-being of every Nigerian,” Akpabio declared. “We must ensure transparency and accountability so that the Nigeria Police Force is empowered to fulfill its mandate effectively.”
The Nigeria Police Trust Fund, established to provide sustainable alternative funding for the force, aims to improve police welfare, training, and operational readiness.
This budget approval marks a significant stride toward restoring public confidence in law enforcement and tackling insecurity across the nation.
As Nigeria faces evolving security challenges, the Senate’s decisive backing of the Police Trust Fund budget sends a strong message of commitment to security sector reform and nation-building.