The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) announced Sunday that it has forwarded its recommendations on establishing state police to the National Security Adviser (NSA) paving the way for legislative action in the National Assembly.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, who chairs the forum, revealed the development during a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his residence in Lagos.
About 25 Governors attended the gathering on short notice, a turnout AbdulRazaq described as a testament to President Tinubu’s leadership.
“Discussions are ongoing among various security organizations, led by the National Security Adviser, and the NGF has made its contribution,”
AbdulRazaq said.
“That document will be taken to the National Assembly to see how we can have a legislative framework for state police.”
NewsQuest reports that the proposal comes amid heated national debate over decentralizing Nigeria’s policing system.
Supporters say state-level forces would improve responsiveness to local threats like banditry and insurgency.
Critics, however, warn of risks including political weaponization by Governors.
In February, the new Inspector General of Police (IGP) Tunji Disu, formed a committee to outline implementation details.
Governor AbdulRazaq used the occasion to pledge governors’ renewed partnership with federal security agencies.
“We commit to defeat terrorism steadily, expand infrastructure opportunities and improve outcomes for our people,” he said, urging collective action to end “breaches of security all over the country.”
He also lauded Tinubu’s recent state visit to Britain — Nigeria’s first in 37 years — for securing investment pledges and bilateral deals.
“It speaks to new leadership in Nigeria,” Governor AbdulRazaq said, expressing optimism that the agreements would bolster prosperity.
The Governors praised President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda for fostering national pride and inclusivity in nation-building.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila and other officials joined the closed-door session.
Governor AbdulRazaq called on all Nigerians, particularly leaders, to embrace piety, selflessness and unity for shared security and well-being.
