The federal government has inaugurated an inter-ministerial committee to review the proliferation and structure of security and para-military agencies across the country.
The committee, inaugurated in Abuja on Wednesday, is tasked with examining federal, state and quasi-government security outfits, including auxiliary and specialised bodies, with a view to streamlining operations and improving coordination.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, who was represented by Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Ibrahim Kana, said the initiative was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
He said the move was driven by concerns over the rising number of security and auxiliary agencies, which has led to duplication of roles, overlapping mandates and operational inefficiencies.
“This initiative is aimed at streamlining the nation’s security architecture and addressing the growing trend of unaccredited quasi-security outfits.
“It also underscores the government’s commitment to efficiency, accountability and improved coordination among agencies responsible for protecting lives and property,” he said.
According to him, the committee will develop a comprehensive framework to guide government decisions on restructuring and rationalising security outfits.
Kana said the panel would compile an inventory of all security and para-military agencies at various levels, examine their legal and operational mandates, and identify areas of overlap or conflict.
“The committee will also assess the relevance and effectiveness of emerging security outfits, review existing coordination mechanisms, and propose reforms to enhance accountability and reduce redundancies,” he added.
He noted that the panel would recommend policy, legal and institutional measures, including options for mergers, harmonisation, reclassification or dissolution of agencies where necessary.
Membership of the committee includes representatives from key security institutions such as 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 a stipulated timeframe.