Nigeria's 36 governors are pushing hard for state police creation. They want any new force built on constitutional grounds and federal principles.
The Nigeria Governors' Forum met in Abuja this week to hash out details. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who chairs the forum and governs Kwara State, signed off on their statement.
During the gathering, state attorneys-general presented updates on constitutional amendment efforts. They outlined what legal changes would be needed to establish state forces.
"Governors emphasised the need for state police to be constitutionally sound and aligned with federalism and citizens' rights," the communiqué read. Ogun State's Dapo Abiodun delivered the statement to reporters.
Talk between governors and attorneys-general will continue going forward. Officials believe these discussions will sharpen the states' unified stance on the matter.
Insecurity has worsened across Nigeria in recent years. Banditry, kidnappings, terrorism, and communal violence have all spiked dramatically.
Many believe decentralised policing could help tackle these threats better. State-level forces might respond faster to local security needs, stakeholders argue.
Back in April, governors already backed a state police framework proposal. The NGF Secretariat was tasked with drafting comprehensive plans.
That framework covers funding models and recruitment standards. It also addresses governance structures, digital systems, and oversight mechanisms.
Recent developments in the National Assembly have boosted momentum for change. The House of Representatives passed bills seeking constitutional amendments for state police.
These bills now await further legislative action. Supporters see them as critical steps toward decentralising Nigeria's security apparatus.
