By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to review and rationalise the proliferation of security and para-military agencies across Nigeria, in a decisive move aimed at restructuring the country’s security architecture.
According to an official signed statement by the Head, Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chris Ugwuegbulam, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, CON, inaugurated the committee on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in Abuja.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, the SGF said the initiative was driven by growing concerns over the increasing number of security, auxiliary, and quasi-government outfits operating nationwide, many of which lack accreditation.
He noted that the development has led to duplication of responsibilities, jurisdictional conflicts, and operational inefficiencies, thereby undermining effective security coordination.
Akume explained that the committee’s mandate is to comprehensively assess the structure and operations of all federal, state, and quasi-government security agencies, with a view to streamlining their functions and enhancing accountability.
He added that the committee would compile a detailed inventory of existing agencies, examine their legal and operational mandates, and identify areas of overlap or conflict. It is also expected to evaluate the effectiveness of emerging security outfits and review coordination mechanisms among them.
The SGF further stated that the committee would recommend reforms aimed at eliminating redundancies, improving synergy, and aligning operations with national security priorities and international best practices.
He emphasized that the outcome of the committee’s work would guide government decisions on possible mergers, harmonisation, reclassification, or dissolution of agencies where necessary.
Membership of the committee is drawn from key 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, chaired by the SGF, is expected to submit a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations within an approved timeframe.
