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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Senate on Tuesday unveiled a major reorganisation of its standing committees, following an internal restructuring approved by the Selection Committee chaired by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
One of the most significant changes is the leadership of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, now headed by Senator Yahaya Abdullahi (APC, Kebbi North). Until the reshuffle, Abdullahi served as Chairman of the Committee on National Planning. His elevation positions him at the centre of legislative oversight on national intelligence operations.
Announcing the changes, a Senate official said the reconstitution was aimed at “enhancing efficiency and strengthening legislative oversight across sensitive sectors.”
The Committee on Livestock and Animal Husbandry also has a new helmsman, with Senator Shehu Buba (APC, Bauchi South) taking over as chairman. His redeployment follows last week’s decision relieving him of his former position as Chairman of the National Security and Intelligence Committee a move described by Senate insiders as “a routine realignment.”
In a corresponding adjustment, Senator Mustafa Musa (APC, Yobe East) has been appointed Chairman of the Committee on National Planning, replacing Senator Abdullahi who moved to the intelligence committee. Musa is expected to bring what colleagues describe as “fresh strategic insight” to the planning committee.
The Senate further announced a leadership change in the Air Force Committee, naming Senate Minority Whip, Senator Osita Ngwu (PDP, Enugu) as Acting Chairman. Ngwu previously served as the committee’s Deputy Chairman and will now oversee deliberations on Air Force operations and defence aviation. His appointment, according to parliamentary sources, is intended to ensure “continuity and stability.”
The reconstitution takes immediate effect as the Senate prepares for a busy legislative calendar in the coming weeks.