Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has said the proposed policing bill remains on course for completion within the seven-week timeline set for its review. The legislation is part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s policing system and improve the effectiveness of security institutions across the country. Gbajabiamila’s assurance comes amid public interest in the proposed reforms and expectations that the process will lead to meaningful changes in policing and internal security. The seven-week timeline is expected to provide room for consultations, technical reviews and consideration of recommendations from relevant stakeholders before the bill advances through the legislative process. Police reform has remained a major issue in Nigeria, with citizens and experts calling for improvements in recruitment, training, equipment, welfare and accountability. Concerns have also been raised about the ability of security agencies to respond effectively to rising security challenges in different parts of the country. A comprehensive policing framework could address some of these issues by clarifying responsibilities, improving institutional coordination and strengthening mechanisms for professional conduct. Gbajabiamila’s statement suggests that the government remains committed to maintaining the agreed schedule despite the complexity of the proposed reforms. Stakeholder engagement is expected to play an important role because changes to policing arrangements can affect federal, state and local institutions as well as communities across the country. The proposed legislation is also likely to attract scrutiny from civil society organisations, legal experts, police representatives and members of the public. Their contributions could help identify weaknesses and ensure that the final framework addresses practical challenges faced by law enforcement officers and citizens. Effective implementation will ultimately be as important as passing the bill itself. Adequate funding, training, equipment and oversight would be required to translate legislative changes into improved security outcomes. Nigerians will therefore be watching the process closely as the seven-week deadline approaches. Gbajabiamila’s assurance provides an indication that the government does not intend to abandon the timeline and expects the review process to continue according to plan. If completed successfully, the reform could become an important part of broader efforts to improve public safety, strengthen policing institutions and restore confidence between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
