Governors Submit State Police Framework to NSA, Document Heads to National Assembly

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has submitted its input on the proposed state police framework to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhai Ribadu, with the document now expected to be forwarded to the National Assembly.

Chairman of the Forum and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed this on Sunday after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos.

Speaking to reporters, Mr AbdulRazaq said discussions on state police are ongoing under the coordination of the National Security Adviser, and the governors’ forum has made its contribution to the process. He noted that the submitted document would form the basis for a legislative framework on state policing.

The governor reaffirmed the commitment of state chief executives to deepening collaboration with security agencies in order to tackle terrorism, expand infrastructure, and improve the welfare of citizens.

He also congratulated President Tinubu on his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as a bold and significant diplomatic engagement. Mr AbdulRazaq expressed optimism that the bilateral agreements reached during the visit would strengthen ties between both countries and deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.

The NGF chairman commended the President’s leadership in pursuing the Renewed Hope agenda, adding that about 25 governors attended the meeting at short notice as a demonstration of support.

Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, were also present at the gathering.

The proposal for state police has continued to generate intense debate. Proponents argue it would improve security by bringing policing closer to communities, while critics have raised concerns over potential misuse by state governments.

In February, the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, inaugurated a committee to work out modalities for the possible establishment of state police.