The National Assembly has pledged to back President Bola Tinubu in enhancing national security and implementing key reforms to reposition Nigeria’s economy.
The announcement was made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio after leading principal officers of the Senate on a traditional Sallah homage to President Tinubu at his Lagos residence on Thursday.
Akpabio stated that while security in the country has improved, challenges remain, particularly targeting soft locations such as schools, churches, and mosques. “There is no part of Nigeria today where insurgents, including Boko Haram, hoist their flags. Organized bombings have been largely eliminated,” he said.
The Senate President highlighted the need for further protection of vulnerable communities and border areas. He disclosed that lawmakers are exploring the creation of a regulated state policing system under a national framework. “We are considering a positive state police with a national commission to oversee conduct, promotion, and training,” Akpabio explained.
He also urged citizens to support security efforts by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities in their communities.
On economic reforms, Akpabio commended the Tinubu administration for addressing legacy challenges such as multiple exchange rates, fuel subsidy payments, and unsustainable borrowing. He cited the end of fuel queues, tax system harmonization, and ongoing infrastructure projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Lagos-Badagry-Sokoto road corridor, which includes 74 dams aimed at transforming agriculture.
The Senate affirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote long-term growth and development. Akpabio noted that the National Assembly is considering increasing statutory funding for the Nigeria Police Trust Fund from 0.5% to 1% of federation revenue allocation to enhance police infrastructure and equipment.
The delegation also used the visit to pray for national peace, the president’s well-being, and the safe release of Nigerians still in captivity.
