The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday unveiled a sweeping reorganization of its standing committees, marking a significant shift in the internal power dynamics of the 10th National Assembly and an intensified push to address the nation’s worsening security situation.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the new committee leaderships, which affect several key committees such as National Security and Intelligence, National Planning, Air Force, and Livestock and Animal Husbandry.
This restructuring follows the dissolution of the National Security and Intelligence and Air Force Committees on November 26, after Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele faulted them for inadequate oversight amid mounting security threats.
The changes represent one of the broadest committee shake-ups since the inauguration of the 10th Senate and are aimed at bolstering legislative oversight as the National Assembly enters a crucial period of budget defense and policy review.
Senator Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi State), formerly the head of the National Planning Committee, now chairs the National Security and Intelligence Committee.
The Committee on Livestock and Animal Husbandry has been placed under the leadership of Senator Shehu Buba (Bauchi State), who was removed from his former position as Chairman of the National Security and Intelligence Committee.
At the same time, Senator Mustafa Musa (Yobe State) now leads the National Planning Committee, taking over from Senator Abdullahi. The Air Force Committee will be chaired by Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu State – Minority Whip), who previously served as Deputy Chairman.
Nigeria’s escalating security concerns have prompted renewed action from President Tinubu, who recently declared a national security emergency as part of broader efforts to confront the crisis.
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