Senate Advances Emergency Toll Service Bill, Announces Major Committee Reshuffle

The Senate has passed the National Emergency Toll Service (NETS) Establishment Bill, 2025 through second reading, paving the way for the creation of a unified, toll-free three-digit emergency response number accessible nationwide.

Sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua (Katsina Central), the bill seeks to deliver a fast, coordinated and reliable emergency system for Nigerians. It also designates the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as the regulatory authority, a move aimed at strengthening communication and collaboration among emergency responders across the country.

Meanwhile, amid renewed national security concerns, the upper chamber has announced a major reshuffling of several standing committees, including the reconstitution of the Committee on National Security and Intelligence — a promise earlier made by the Senate leadership.

The announcement, delivered during plenary by the Senate Selection Committee chaired by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, confirmed Senator Yahaya Abdullahi of Kebbi State as the new Chairman of the National Security and Intelligence Committee. Abdullahi previously headed the Committee on National Planning.

The Committee on Livestock and Animal Husbandry has also been restructured, with Senator Shehu Buba of Bauchi State now appointed Chairman, following his removal last week as head of the National Security and Intelligence Committee.

Additionally, Senator Mustafa Musa of Yobe State has been named Chairman of the Committee on National Planning.

The Senate Committee on Air Force has also undergone changes, with Senate Minority Whip Osita Ngwu of Enugu State taking over as acting Chairman, following the indisposition of former chairman Senator Akwashiki.

According to Senate leadership, the reassignments are part of broader efforts to strengthen oversight and enhance institutional response to evolving national security issues.