ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Nigeria’s 36 state governors have intensified their push for the creation of state police, saying the reform must be constitutionally grounded, aligned with federalism, and protective of citizens’ rights.
Meeting under the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), the leaders said consultations with state Attorneys‑General and other stakeholders have strengthened their collective position. Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, NGF chairman, noted that governors received detailed presentations on constitutional amendments currently before the National Assembly.
The House of Representatives earlier this month overwhelmingly backed a bill to establish state police, with 289 of 290 lawmakers voting in favor. The Senate also advanced the measure, marking a significant step in efforts to address Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.
Governors said they had already developed a framework outlining readiness requirements, including governance structures, financing models, human capital standards, digital systems and oversight mechanisms. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, reading the communique, stressed that the initiative must be “constitutionally sound and aligned with citizens’ rights.”
The NGF also reiterated its commitment to power sector reforms, highlighting the National Solar Super‑Grid Initiative a proposal to expand electricity access through large‑scale decentralized solar generation integrated with a national transmission network. Governors said collaboration with federal institutions and development partners would be deepened to secure reliable and affordable electricity for Nigerians.
Nigeria has faced mounting insecurity, with federal forces struggling to contain armed groups, banditry and communal violence. Supporters of state police argue that localized forces would improve response times and accountability. Critics warn of risks of political misuse by state governments, raising concerns about human rights and impartiality.
International observers note that Nigeria’s move mirrors trends in other federal systems, such as the United States and India, where sub‑national police forces operate alongside national agencies. The outcome of the constitutional amendment process will be closely watched as a test of Nigeria’s ability to balance security needs with democratic safeguards.
Civil society groups have cautiously welcomed the governors’ stance, urging transparency and strong oversight mechanisms. “State police could help communities feel safer, but without accountability, it could also deepen abuse,” one rights advocate said.
