State police proposal heads to NASS as governors intensify security reform push

The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has submitted its position on the proposed establishment of state police, with the document set to be forwarded to the National Assembly of Nigeria for consideration.

Chairman of the forum and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed this after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Ikoyi, Lagos, noting that the submission was made through the Nuhu Ribadu, who is coordinating consultations on the initiative.

According to AbdulRazaq, deliberations on state policing are ongoing among security agencies and key stakeholders, with the governors’ input aimed at shaping a workable legal and operational framework.

“The NGF has made its contribution, and the document will now be transmitted to the National Assembly to develop the necessary legislative backing,” he said.

The move signals fresh momentum in the push to decentralise policing in Nigeria, as authorities seek new strategies to address persistent security challenges.

The governors reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation with security agencies to combat terrorism and improve public safety.

“We will continue to work closely with security forces to steadily defeat terrorism, expand infrastructure, and improve the well-being of our people,” AbdulRazaq stated.

He also lauded President Tinubu for his recent diplomatic engagement in the United Kingdom, describing it as a milestone that could boost Nigeria’s international partnerships and attract investment.

“The state visit, the first in 37 years, underscores a new phase in Nigeria’s leadership and global engagement,” he said.

AbdulRazaq expressed confidence that agreements reached during the visit would strengthen bilateral relations and translate into economic benefits for citizens.

He further commended the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda, saying it has encouraged greater citizen participation in nation-building and could contribute to improved security nationwide.

The NGF chairman stressed the need for collective action to end insecurity across the country, urging Nigerians to embrace unity and shared responsibility.

“Together, we must ensure that security breaches across the nation are decisively addressed,” he said.

About 25 governors attended the meeting, reflecting what AbdulRazaq described as strong support for the President’s leadership.

Also present were Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, alongside other senior government officials.

The state police proposal continues to generate mixed reactions nationwide, with supporters highlighting its potential to improve community-level security, while critics caution against possible misuse by state authorities.

In a related development, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, had earlier constituted a committee to outline modalities for the implementation of state policing, further advancing discussions on the reform.