By Nkechi Eze
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has made a case for the removal of the Nigeria Police Force from the envelope budgetary regime. This call was made during the defense of the 2025 budget for the Nigeria Police Force at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
This request is aimed at allowing the police force to have better control over its funding requirements, enabling more effective budgetary planning, and ultimately enhancing service delivery. Currently, the envelope budgeting system limits the Force ability to properly project its funding needs.
A statement made available to newsmen by the Force Public Relations Officer states that; The IGP was joined by the Force Management Team and some senior officers, as he presented the budget. In attendance were key stakeholders, such as Senator Abdulhamid Mallam Maidori, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, and Honourable Makki Yalleman, Chairman of the House Committee on Police Affairs. Also present were Senator (Dr.) Ibrahim Gaidam, Minister of Police Affairs, and DIG Hashimu Argungu Rtd., Chairman of the Police Service Commission, along with other distinguished and honorable members of the committees.
“The IGP in his presentation, emphasized the need to remove the NPF from the envelope budgetary regime to allow for accurate funding projections. This adjustment, he explained, would enable greater flexibility and ensure the availability of funds to manage the Force more effectively. He also highlighted the need for the approval and creation of a Special Operations Account dedicated solely to national security emergencies, as well as an increase in allocations for Overhead and Capital Expenditure” he said.
The IGP further proposed allocating funds for the construction of five new zonal headquarters, along with supporting tactical units critical to internal security. He also called for the approval of dedicated budget lines for police training institutions to enhance capacity building. Additionally, the IGP stressed that the prompt and full release of appropriated funds in 2025 would be essential for the smooth functioning of the entire Force.
The Inspector-General of Police expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Joint Committees for their active participation and engagement during this pivotal budgetary session. He reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s dedication to fostering a collaborative relationship with the committees, aimed at repositioning the NPF to align with the shared goal of a safe, secure, and stable Nigeria. By working together, the NPF strives to enhance its capabilities and better serve the nation.
