The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has submitted its recommendations on the proposed establishment of state police to the National Security Adviser, in a move that could shape future security reforms in the country.
The development was disclosed on Sunday in Lagos by the Chairman of the NGF and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his residence in Ikoyi.
Speaking after the meeting, AbdulRazaq said the document submitted by the governors would be forwarded to the National Assembly for consideration and possible legislation.
According to him, discussions on the creation of state police are ongoing among various security agencies under the coordination of the National Security Adviser.
“On the issue of state police, discussions are ongoing amongst various security organisations, led by the National Security Adviser, and the NGF has made its contribution,” he said.
“That document will be taken to the National Assembly to see how we can have a legislative framework for state police.”
The NGF chairman reaffirmed the commitment of state governors to work closely with security agencies to address the country’s security challenges, including terrorism and criminal activities.
He noted that governors are determined to strengthen collaboration with federal authorities to improve safety, expand infrastructure, and enhance the well-being of citizens.
“As governors, we commit to renew our collaboration with security forces to defeat terrorism steadily, expand infrastructure opportunities and improve the lives of our people,” AbdulRazaq added.
AbdulRazaq also commended President Tinubu for his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations.
He said the visit—the first of its kind in 37 years—demonstrates a new phase of leadership and international engagement for Nigeria.
“We congratulate you on the successful state visit to the United Kingdom and the many successes and investment proposals achieved during the trip,” he said.
The governor expressed optimism that agreements reached during the visit would boost economic growth and bring greater prosperity to Nigerians.
The NGF chairman emphasised the need for unity and shared responsibility among Nigerians to tackle insecurity across the country.
“Together, we must see that breaches of security all over the country come to an end,” he stated.
He also urged leaders and citizens to embrace values such as selflessness, compassion, and mutual understanding as part of efforts to build a safer and more stable nation.
About 25 state governors attended the meeting, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and other top government officials.
The proposal for state police has remained a contentious issue in Nigeria.
Supporters argue that decentralising policing would improve security by allowing local authorities to respond more effectively to threats within their communities.
However, critics warn that such a system could be abused by state governments, potentially leading to political intimidation and misuse of power.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, had earlier set up a committee in February to develop modalities for implementing state police.
As discussions continue, the eventual decision by the National Assembly will be critical in determining the future structure of policing in Nigeria.
