The 36 state governors under the umbrella of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) have renewed their call for the urgent establishment of state police as part of efforts to tackle Nigeria’s growing security challenges. The governors stressed that any state policing system must be firmly rooted in the Constitution, reflect the principles of federalism, and safeguard the rights of citizens.
The position was reached during the forum’s meeting in Abuja, where governors received briefings from the NGF Secretariat and a delegation of state Attorneys-General on ongoing efforts to create a legal and operational framework for state police. The governors disclosed that consultations are continuing to ensure that proposed constitutional amendments and implementation structures are properly designed before the new policing system is introduced.
Their renewed support comes shortly after the National Assembly made significant progress on legislation aimed at decentralising policing. The House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment bill seeking the creation of state police, while the Senate also advanced consideration of the proposal. The legislation is seen as a major response to worsening insecurity across various parts of the country.
According to the governors, state Attorneys-General will continue reviewing the proposed amendments and institutional arrangements to ensure that the new security architecture promotes accountability, effective oversight, and cooperation between federal and state authorities. They maintained that the objective is to establish a policing system capable of responding more effectively to local security threats while preserving national unity and democratic principles.
The proposed framework provides for the coexistence of a Federal Police and separate State Police formations established by state laws. However, a state police force would only become operational after meeting nationally prescribed standards and receiving certification. The framework also outlines safeguards intended to prevent undue interference between federal and state policing structures while allowing federal intervention in exceptional circumstances such as a breakdown of law and order.
Beyond security, the governors also reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing reforms in the power sector. They expressed support for initiatives aimed at expanding electricity access, including proposals for large-scale solar power generation and improved transmission infrastructure. The governors noted that such projects could enhance industrial growth, strengthen energy security, and support economic development across the states.
The NGF further endorsed continued collaboration with the Federal Government, development partners, and other stakeholders on programmes designed to improve social welfare, nutrition, health, education, and related sectors. Governors stressed the importance of stronger coordination among various agencies to ensure that development interventions deliver tangible benefits to citizens.