Nigerian NEC Approves Comprehensive Overhaul of Security Training Institutions

NEC Endorses Major Security Sector Reform

The National Economic Council (NEC), chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, has officially endorsed President Bola Tinubu's proposal for a comprehensive overhaul and modernization of training institutions for security agencies across Nigeria. The approval was granted during the NEC's meeting held on Thursday, October 24, 2025, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. This significant decision aims to address the dilapidated state of these facilities and enhance the operational capabilities and professionalism of the nation's security forces.

Committee Formed to Drive Modernization Efforts

To spearhead the reform, the NEC has constituted a high-powered committee tasked with developing a detailed blueprint for the renovation and modernization of these institutions. Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has been appointed as the chairman of this committee. Serving as the secretary is former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Alkali Baba Usman. Other distinguished members of the committee include:

• Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State
• Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State
• Governor Kefas Agbu of Taraba State
• Governor Umoh Eno of Akwa Ibom State
• Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State
• Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State

The committee has been given a strict timeline of one month to produce its blueprint, which will cover training institutions for the Nigeria Police Force and other sister security agencies nationwide.

President Tinubu Emphasizes Urgent Need for Upgrade

President Tinubu's proposal followed a presentation by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, which highlighted the necessity of increased investment in security across all three tiers of government to achieve the President's vision for a trillion-dollar economy. Addressing the council, President Tinubu underscored the urgency of the reforms, stating, 'We have to make the conditions of the training facilities more conducive for both the trainers and trainees.' He further assured that his administration would make concerted efforts to reverse the dilapidation in police training facilities nationwide, emphasizing that upgrading these facilities is critical to boosting police morale. State governors present at the meeting unanimously pledged to collaborate with the Federal Government in this crucial overhaul project.

Strengthening Nigeria's Security Architecture

The initiative is a direct response to the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria, including banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of insecurity, which necessitate a robust and well-trained security apparatus. The comprehensive revamp aims to strengthen Nigeria's national security architecture, enhance professionalism, and ensure that security agencies are better equipped to tackle emerging threats effectively. This move is expected to translate into improved training standards, better facilities, and ultimately, a more effective and responsive security sector for the nation.