NGF submits state police proposal to National Assembly for review

The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) on Sunday announced that it has submitted its contribution on the proposed state police framework to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, with the document expected to be forwarded to the National Assembly.

NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed this during a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos. He said discussions on state police are ongoing among various security organizations under the leadership 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. That document will be taken to the National Assembly to see how we can have a legislative framework for state police,” AbdulRazaq stated.

The governor reaffirmed the commitment of state leaders to collaborate with security forces in tackling terrorism, expanding infrastructure, and improving citizens’ lives.

“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,” he said.

AbdulRazaq also congratulated President Tinubu on his recent successful state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as bold and significant, noting that it is the first in 37 years. He expressed confidence that bilateral agreements and new approaches on shared interests would strengthen relations between Nigeria and the UK and bring prosperity to Nigerians.

He commended the President for advancing the Renewed Hope agenda in a manner that instills pride among Nigerians, saying, “Every Nigerian now has a stake in nation-building. We believe that this will translate to improved security in every part of our country.”

The governor emphasised the need for a collective effort to end security breaches nationwide and called on Nigerians, especially leaders, to uphold values such as piety, selflessness, compassion, unity, and mutual understanding.

About 25 governors attended the meeting at short notice, demonstrating their respect for the President’s leadership, AbdulRazaq added. Vice President Kashim Shettima, Speaker of the House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila, and other top officials were present.

The state police proposal has sparked debate, with supporters arguing it would enhance security by bringing policing closer to communities, while critics warn of potential abuse by governors. In February, the new Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, set up a committee to develop modalities for establishing state police.