FG pledges security reforms, plans national paramilitary academy
By Seun Ibiyemi
The Federal Government, through the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reiterated its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s internal security through strategic reforms and collaborations.
Speaking at a high-level meeting with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) in Abuja, the Minister emphasised the urgent need to overhaul the country’s paramilitary structure to tackle evolving security challenges effectively.
Dr Tunji-Ojo stressed that Nigeria’s internal security framework requires a fundamental shift, stating, “Our paramilitary agencies must be repositioned to fulfil their intended roles, ensuring a secure and stable nation.”
He outlined key priorities, including conducting a comprehensive skill set audit of all paramilitary personnel, developing a curriculum for the proposed National Paramilitary Academy, and instituting a merit-based promotion system strictly tied to competence and performance.
Additionally, he noted that rigorous training programmes would be introduced to enhance the capacity of paramilitary officers.
“Our approach will be strategic, fair, and geared towards building a capable and dependable system,” he asserted, calling on stakeholders to support the government’s efforts in reshaping Nigeria’s security landscape.
“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we are determined to create a system that generations yet unborn will be proud of. This is our moment of discovery, and we must have the courage to do what is right,” he concluded.
The meeting was attended by the Director-General of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Major General G. A. Wahab (rtd), who pledged the Centre’s support for the Ministry’s reform agenda.
General Wahab highlighted NARC’s role in research and capacity development, citing collaborations with King’s College London, Harvard University, and Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS).
“We are honoured to collaborate with the Ministry of Interior in establishing a state-of-the-art academy,” he stated.
“This initiative will enhance training, leadership development, and strategic planning for paramilitary agencies, ensuring a well-trained and capable workforce to address Nigeria’s multifaceted security challenges.”
The Federal Government’s reform agenda signals a significant shift in Nigeria’s internal security approach, prioritising efficiency, professionalism, and strategic capacity-building within paramilitary agencies.
