The Nigerian Senate announced a major reshuffle of its standing committees on Tuesday. Senate President Godswill Akpabio unveiled these changes to address the nation’s escalating security challenges.
This strategic reorganization affects several sensitive portfolios. These include National Security and Intelligence, National Planning, the Air Force, and Livestock Development.
Strengthening Oversight Mechanisms
The leadership took this decision following the recent dissolution of two key panels: National Security and Intelligence, and the Air Force.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele previously raised concerns about these committees. He cited ineffective oversight functions amidst worsening national security metrics.
Consequently, this reshuffle represents one of the most extensive structural adjustments since the 10th Senate began.
It aims to strengthen legislative scrutiny as the parliament enters the critical budget defense season. Furthermore, it aligns with the executive branch’s recent declaration of a national security emergency.
The New Appointments
The reshuffle involves the redeployment of key lawmakers to new strategic roles. The new appointments are as follows:
- National Security and Intelligence: Senator Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi State) takes over this critical committee. Previously, he chaired the Committee on National Planning.
- Livestock and Animal Husbandry: In a notable move, Senator Shehu Buba (Bauchi State) will lead this committee. The leadership removed him as Chairman of the National Security and Intelligence Committee to take this new role.
- National Planning: Senator Mustafa Musa (Yobe State) fills the vacancy created by Senator Abdullahi’s redeployment.
- Air Force: Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu State) steps up as the substantive Chairman. The Senate Minority Whip previously served as Deputy Chairman of the committee.
These adjustments aim to reinvigorate the Senate’s engagement with security agencies. This is vital as the government intensifies efforts to tackle banditry and terrorism across the federation.
