Date: March 22, 2026 l By: Dalena Reporters
The move comes amid growing insecurity across the country, with governors pushing for decentralized policing as a solution to rising cases of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping affecting multiple regions.
According to reports, the proposal outlines a comprehensive framework for establishing state-controlled police forces, aimed at complementing the existing federal police structure. The governors believe that localized policing will enhance intelligence gathering, improve rapid response, and better address community-specific security challenges.
The NGF, a body representing all state governors in Nigeria, has been at the forefront of calls for security reforms, arguing that the current centralized policing system is overstretched and insufficient to tackle modern threats.
Sources indicate that the proposal was first submitted to the National Security Adviser before being forwarded for legislative consideration, signaling coordinated efforts between state leaders and federal authorities to push the reform forward.
The push for state police has long been a contentious issue in Nigeria. While supporters argue it will strengthen grassroots security and reduce response time, critics warn it could be abused by state governments for political purposes if not properly regulated.
Despite these concerns, the worsening security situation appears to have strengthened political will across states, with many governors now united in demanding urgent structural changes.
Analysts say if approved, the proposal could lead to one of the most significant constitutional and security reforms in Nigeria’s recent history, potentially reshaping how law enforcement operates across the country.
As the National Assembly begins its review, Nigerians are watching closely, with expectations high that the initiative could finally deliver a more effective and responsive security system.