The 36 state governors under the umbrella of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) have renewed their call for the establishment of state police, arguing that Nigeria’s worsening security challenges demand urgent reforms to strengthen policing and law enforcement at the sub-national level.
The governors reiterated their position during deliberations on national security and governance, maintaining that the persistent rise in banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, communal conflicts, and other violent crimes has exposed the shortcomings of the country’s centralised policing system.
According to the governors, creating state police would enable state governments to respond more swiftly and effectively to security threats within their territories, improve intelligence gathering, and strengthen cooperation between local communities and security agencies.
In a communiqué issued at the end of their meeting, the governors stressed that any framework for state policing must be anchored in the Constitution and structured to safeguard the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens. They further emphasised the need for robust safeguards to prevent abuse, political persecution, and the misuse of security institutions by state authorities.
The governors observed that insecurity continues to undermine national development, economic growth, agricultural productivity, and social stability. They pointed to the increasing incidents of ransom kidnappings, attacks on rural communities, destruction of farmlands, and the displacement of thousands of Nigerians as evidence that comprehensive security reforms can no longer be postponed.
They argued that state and local authorities possess a deeper understanding of the terrain, culture, language, and unique security dynamics within their jurisdictions, placing them in a stronger position to identify and neutralise threats before they escalate into major crises.
The renewed advocacy for state police comes amid growing national debate over the effectiveness of Nigeria’s current security architecture. Security experts, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and political leaders have consistently advocated the decentralisation of policing powers as part of broader efforts to address the country’s security concerns.
Proponents of state police believe the system would facilitate faster emergency responses, enhance intelligence sharing, and promote more effective community policing. However, opponents have raised concerns that state-controlled police forces could be exploited by governors to suppress political opponents if adequate constitutional safeguards are not established.
Acknowledging these concerns, the governors insisted that any legislation establishing state police must incorporate clear oversight mechanisms, accountability structures, and operational guidelines to guarantee professionalism, transparency, and respect for human rights.
The National Assembly is expected to continue deliberations on constitutional amendments relating to state police as part of ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria’s security sector.
With insecurity remaining one of the nation’s most pressing challenges, the governors’ renewed position is expected to reignite nationwide discussions on whether state police can provide a sustainable solution to Nigeria’s growing security crisis.