Nigeria's 36 state governors have intensified their push for the establishment of state police, arguing that greater security powers are needed to address the country's worsening insecurity. The position was adopted under the platform of the Nigeria Governors' Forum during a recent meeting in Abuja.
The governors said the proposed state police structure must be backed by clear constitutional provisions and aligned with the principles of federalism while protecting citizens' rights. They also revealed that consultations are ongoing with the attorneys-general of the 36 states to review the constitutional amendments required to bring the initiative into effect.
According to the forum, the current centralized policing system has struggled to effectively respond to the diverse security challenges confronting different parts of the country, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes, and other violent crimes.
The renewed demand comes as Nigeria continues to battle a series of high-profile abductions and attacks in several states. Supporters of state police argue that governors are often held responsible for security failures despite having limited operational control over police formations within their states.
Advocates believe state-controlled police forces would improve intelligence gathering, enhance emergency response times, and allow officers to better understand local security realities. They also argue that decentralizing policing could strengthen community trust and improve crime prevention efforts.
However, the proposal continues to generate debate among legal experts and civil society groups. Critics warn that without strong safeguards, some governors could misuse state police for political purposes or target opponents. Concerns have also been raised over funding, operational standards, and coordination between federal and state security agencies.
The campaign for state police has gained significant momentum after the National Assembly advanced legislation that would allow states to establish and manage their own police forces alongside the Nigeria Police Force. The proposal still requires approval from at least two-thirds of state assemblies before becoming law.
Security analysts say the outcome of the constitutional amendment process could represent one of the most significant changes to Nigeria's security architecture since the country's return to democratic rule.
As discussions continue, many stakeholders agree that the growing insecurity facing communities nationwide has increased pressure on policymakers to explore new approaches to policing and public safety.