Tinubu Celebrates 20 Years Milestone in Nigeria’s Para-military Transformation

  Today, the Nigeria Para-Military Service marked a significant milestone, celebrating 20 years since the introduction of ground-breaking reforms initiated by former Lagos State Governor, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The reforms, which were implemented in 2003, have had a profound impact on the service, transforming it into a modern, efficient, and effective force. The reforms, which were designed to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of the para-military agencies, including the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), among others, have yielded remarkable results. The initiatives introduced by Tinubu, who was then the Governor of Lagos State, have been widely acclaimed as a major turning point in the history of Nigeria’s para-military Over the past 20 years, the reforms have led to significant improvements in Lagos state. The introduction of modern training programs and equipment has significantly improved the skills and competencies of para-military personnel, enabling them to respond more effectively to emerging security challenges. The reforms have led to the construction of new facilities, including barracks, training schools, and equipment maintenance centres, which have improved the working conditions and overall efficiency of the service. The introduction of new management systems and accountability mechanisms has enhanced transparency and reduced corruption within the service. The reforms have promoted community policing, which has improved relationships between the para-military agencies and the communities they serve, leading to increased trust and cooperation. The Tinubu reforms also had a significant impact on national security, as it has greatly reduced crime rate, enhanced border security and improved disaster response. Commenting on the milestone, former Governor Tinubu said, “I am proud of the progress we have made in transforming Nigeria’s para-military service. Our vision was to create a modern, effective, and accountable service that would make Nigeria a safer and more secure place for all. I am pleased to see that our reforms have had a lasting impact, and I commend the current leadership of the para-military agencies for building on the foundations we laid 20 years ago.” To commemorate the 20-year milestone, the Nigeria Para-Military Service will hold a series of events, including a parade, exhibitions, and lectures, to reflect on the progress made and chart a course for the future. The celebrations will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to come together and acknowledge the significant contributions of the para-military agencies to national security and development. As Nigeria continues to face emerging security challenges, the Tinubu reforms serve as a reminder of the importance of visionary leadership, institutional reform, and investment in human capacity. The milestone achieved today is a testament to the power of transformative change and a beacon of hope for a safer, more secure Nigeria.