The Senate has passed, through second reading, the National Emergency Toll Service (NETS) Establishment Bill 2025.
Sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua (Katsina Central), the bill seeks to establish a unified, accessible, and rapid emergency response system via a dedicated three-digit, toll-free number available across the country. The proposed legislation — which received strong support from lawmakers — also designates the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as the regulatory authority, with the goal of enhancing coordination among emergency response agencies nationwide.
Meanwhile, against the backdrop of rising national security challenges, the Senate has announced a major reconstitution of several standing committees, fulfilling its earlier promise to overhaul the National Security and Intelligence Committee.
The announcement was made during plenary by the Senate Selection Committee chaired by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Under the new arrangement, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi of Kebbi State has been appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, a position he assumes after previously leading the Committee on National Planning.
The Senate also reorganized the Committee on Livestock and Animal Husbandry, naming Senator Shehu Buba of Bauchi State as its new chairman. Senator Buba had been removed last week as Chairman of the National Security and Intelligence Committee.
In a related development, Senator Mustafa Musa of Yobe State has been named Chairman of the Committee on National Planning.
Further adjustments were made to the Senate Committee on Air Force, with Senate Minority Whip Osita Ngwu of Enugu State taking over as Acting Chairman. Ngwu had been the committee’s deputy chairman prior to the temporary indisposition of former chairman Senator Akwashiki.
According to Senate leadership, the committee reshuffle aims to strengthen legislative oversight and enhance the institution’s ability to respond effectively to emerging security concerns.
