President Bola Tinubu has taken a major step toward the creation of state police by forwarding a constitutional amendment bill to the Senate for consideration.
The proposed legislation seeks to establish a legal framework that would allow states to operate their own police services alongside the Nigeria Police Force in a dual policing system.
The bill, which was read during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture and improve the fight against crime across the country.
According to President Tinubu, the proposed amendment will empower states, local governments and communities to play a more active role in maintaining security and protecting lives and property.
The president believes the move will help address growing security challenges by bringing policing closer to the people.
Following its presentation, the Senate referred the bill to the Committee on Constitutional Review for further legislative action.
Speaking on the proposal, Akpabio emphasized the importance of community-based policing, noting that local authorities are often in a better position to identify security threats before they escalate.
“The issue of state police is non-partisan and cuts across geopolitical zones and interests.”
He also revealed that safeguards would be included in the implementation process to ensure accountability and prevent abuse.
The Senate President urged lawmakers to participate actively in discussions on the bill, stressing that constitutional amendments require broad support from legislators.
The development comes as calls for state police continue to gain momentum among political leaders, security experts and stakeholders seeking new approaches to tackling insecurity across Nigeria.
If passed, the amendment would mark one of the most significant changes to Nigeria’s policing system in decades.
Source: Nigerian Senate
