The Senate has passed the National Emergency Toll Service (NETS) Establishment Bill 2025 through second reading, moving Nigeria closer to having a single, unified emergency telephone number.
Sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua of Katsina Central, the bill seeks to create a uniform, rapid-response system through a dedicated three-digit, toll-free number accessible across the country. It also designates the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as the regulatory authority to ensure seamless coordination among emergency responders nationwide. The bill received broad support during debate.
Amid the discussion, the Senate also announced a sweeping reorganisation of several standing committees, following through on its earlier promise to restructure the Committee on National Security and Intelligence.
The announcement was made during plenary by the Senate Selection Committee, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Under the new changes, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi of Kebbi State has been appointed Chairman of the Committee on National Security and Intelligence, replacing Senator Shehu Buba, who was removed from the position last week. Abdullahi previously chaired the National Planning Committee.
Senator Buba has now been named Chairman of the Committee on Livestock and Animal Husbandry.
In another shift, Senator Mustafa Musa of Yobe State has taken over as Chairman of the Committee on National Planning.
The Committee on Air Force has also been restructured, with Senate Minority Whip Osita Ngwu of Enugu State stepping in as acting Chairman. Ngwu had served as deputy chairman before the former chairman, Senator Akwashiki, became indisposed.
Senate leadership said the committee reshufflings are part of broader efforts to strengthen legislative oversight and enhance the country’s response to escalating national security concerns.