FG moves to streamline security architecture, inaugurates inter-ministerial committee

…targets proliferation of quasi-security outfits nationwide

…panel to recommend mergers, reforms, possible dissolution of agencie

The Federal Government on Wednesday inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to review the proliferation and rationalisation of security and para-military agencies across the country, in a move aimed at strengthening coordination and efficiency within Nigeria’s security architecture.

The initiative, unveiled by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, is designed to address the growing number of federal, state and quasi-government security outfits, including auxiliary and specialised agencies operating nationwide.

Represented at the inauguration in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office (GSO), Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, the SGF said the move reflects the government’s commitment to curbing unaccredited quasi-security organisations while promoting accountability and operational efficiency among agencies responsible for safeguarding lives and property.

According to a statement issued by the Head of Information and Public Relations at the office of the SGF, Chris Ugwuegbulam, Akume noted that the increasing number of security and auxiliary bodies has led to duplication of roles, jurisdictional overlaps and operational inefficiencies, thereby necessitating a comprehensive review.

He explained that the committee’s report would provide a framework to guide government decisions on streamlining the operations of auxiliary and para-military agencies.

According to him, the committee is mandated to compile a comprehensive inventory of all security and para-military outfits at federal, state and quasi-government levels, examine their legal and operational mandates, and identify areas of overlap or conflict.

He added that the panel would also assess the relevance and effectiveness of emerging security outfits, review coordination mechanisms among agencies, and propose reforms to enhance accountability while reducing redundancies.

“The committee will undertake a thorough review of existing frameworks, identify gaps and recommend measures to ensure a more coherent and effective security system,” he said.

Akume further stated that the panel would align the operations of security agencies with national priorities and international best practices, while recommending appropriate policy, legal and institutional measures for reform.

Such measures, he said, could include options for mergers, harmonisation, reclassification or dissolution of agencies where necessary.

Membership of the committee, chaired by the SGF, is drawn from key security and government institutions, including the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Police Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Office of the National Security Adviser.

The committee is expected to submit a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations to the Federal Government within an approved timeframe.