Police get N4bn to fuel operational vehicles

The era of police complaining of lack of fuel for their operational vehicles when they receive distress calls may soon be offer as the Federal Government has approved N4 billion for fuel.

The amount is for fueling of their operational vehicles across 36 states of the country and the Federal Capital Territory.

Minister of Police Affairs, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, disclosed this at the National Institute of Police Studies in Abuja on Tuesday.

He said approving such funds for fueling under the 2021 budget was the first time in the history of Nigeria Police.

“The ministry is deeply grateful to Mr President and the National Assembly for approving funds for the supply of fuel to the 36 states police commands across the country and FCT to increase their efficiency. Over N4 billion has been earmarked for this purpose,” he said.

The minister also revealed that the Police Trust Fund had awarded contracts for the supply of more operational vehicles, body protection vest & helmet, arms and ammunition, drugs and medical equipment, and other critical security hardware.

He added that the Federal Executive Council recently approved the automation of police specialised services to promote transparency and accountability as well as serve as an additional source of funding to enhance police operations.

He also spoke on the new salary structure for police officers which was promised by President Muhammadu Buhari, saying the President’s directive to the National Wages and Salaries Commission on the issue would soon come out.