By Onilede Titi Faith
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signaled his administration’s readiness to revisit the creation of state police as part of broader efforts to combat Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
Speaking on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa during a meeting with the North-East Governors Forum, led by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, the President said localized policing had become inevitable.
He emphasized that state police would complement federal security agencies in addressing crime and insurgency.
Tinubu assured that the Federal Government would collaborate with state governments and the leadership of the National Assembly to fast-track the legislative process required for the reform.
“Politics apart, we can engage the National Assembly leadership to critically examine the path to achieving this. State police, indigenous to communities, can provide additional safety buffers and effectiveness,” the President said.
Citing the example of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), in the North-East, Tinubu noted that community-based forces familiar with their terrain and cultures have proven more effective in confronting insurgents and criminals.
He added that state police would enhance intelligence gathering, ensure quicker responses to threats, and promote accountability at the grassroots level, while stressing that safeguards would be introduced to prevent political abuse or ethnic profiling.
The North-East governors welcomed the move, with Governor Zulum reiterating the forum’s long-standing support.
“For the peculiar security situation in our region, we believe that state police will be a game-changer. We commend the President for taking this bold step,” Zulum said.
The renewed push comes after years of contentious debate. While critics warn of challenges around funding, training, and possible misuse by governors, advocates argue it remains the most effective way to secure communities.
With Tinubu’s fresh commitment, momentum is expected to build in the coming weeks as the National Assembly considers constitutional amendments to accommodate the reform.
