In a significant move to enhance public safety, the Nigerian Senate has advanced legislation aimed at creating a nationwide emergency reporting system. The upper legislative chamber passed the National Emergency Toll Service (NETS) Establishment Bill 2025 through its second reading, marking a pivotal step towards establishing a single, unified emergency telephone number for the entire country.
A Unified Emergency Response System
The proposed legislation, championed by Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar'adua representing Katsina Central, seeks to revolutionize how Nigerians access emergency help. The core of the bill is the creation of a uniform and rapid-response system anchored by a dedicated three-digit, toll-free number. This number would be accessible from any phone across Nigeria, eliminating the current confusion caused by multiple, disjointed emergency lines.
To ensure the system's effectiveness, the bill designates the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as the regulatory authority. The NCC will be tasked with guaranteeing seamless coordination and communication among various emergency responders nationwide, including police, fire services, and medical teams. During the plenary debate, the bill garnered widespread support from senators who recognized its potential to save lives.
Major Senate Committee Reshuffles Announced
Amid the debate on the emergency service bill, the Senate also announced a sweeping reorganization of several key standing committees. This move fulfills an earlier promise to restructure the Committee on National Security and Intelligence. The announcement was made during plenary by the Senate Selection Committee, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Under the new changes, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi of Kebbi State has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Committee on National Security and Intelligence. He replaces Senator Shehu Buba, who was removed from the position last week. Senator Abdullahi previously chaired the National Planning Committee. Senator Buba has now been reassigned to lead the Committee on Livestock and Animal Husbandry.
Further Leadership Changes
The reshuffle extended to other critical committees. Senator Mustafa Musa of Yobe State has taken over the helm of the Committee on National Planning. Furthermore, the Committee on Air Force has been restructured, with Senate Minority Whip Osita Ngwu of Enugu State stepping in as the acting Chairman. Senator Ngwu had previously served as the deputy chairman before the former chairman, Senator Akwashiki, became indisposed.
The Senate leadership stated that these committee reshufflings are part of a broader strategy to strengthen legislative oversight and enhance the country's institutional response to escalating national security concerns. The passage of the NETS Bill, coupled with the committee realignments, signals a focused legislative agenda on safety and security matters.
