President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appealed to the leadership of Nigeria’s 10th Senate to consider constitutional amendments that would provide a legal framework for the establishment of State Police across the federation.

The President made this call on Wednesday during an interfaith breakfast with senators at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, emphasizing that a decentralized policing structure is crucial to tackling evolving security challenges nationwide.

According to Tinubu, the creation of State Police would enhance grassroots policing, allow states to respond more effectively to local threats, and complement the existing federal security architecture.

He noted that intelligence-led, community-focused law enforcement would be better positioned to address issues such as terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.

“We are facing terrorism, banditry, and insurgency. But we will never fail to make the right response. What I ask tonight is for you, Senators, to start thinking about how best to amend the constitution to incorporate State Police so that we can secure our country, reclaim our forests from marauders, and free our children from fear,” the President said.

Tinubu highlighted the importance of collaboration between the executive and legislative arms, stressing that unity is essential to defeating insecurity in Nigeria. He praised the cordial relationship between his administration and the Senate, noting that it has facilitated the implementation of economic reforms such as fuel subsidy removal and tax policy overhauls.

“I have a lot of credit for bold reforms. Without your collaboration, those reforms would not have been possible. We are reformists together. The steps we’ve taken have eliminated monumental corruption in the subsidy system and stabilized our economy. You should be proud of these achievements,” the President added.

The President also emphasized that the State Police proposal is part of a broader strategy to ensure that security reforms keep pace with Nigeria’s changing socio-economic landscape. By empowering states to handle local security matters, the federal government hopes to reduce response times, improve intelligence gathering, and foster trust between law enforcement and communities.

Speaking in support of the initiative, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended Tinubu for convening the interfaith breakfast and for his visionary leadership. Akpabio acknowledged the administration’s reforms, noting that they have generated additional revenue streams for governors at the sub-national level, enabling investments in critical infrastructure and social services.

“The President’s leadership at this crucial time provides the nation with a clear direction. His administration’s reforms have enhanced state-level resources, which can now be directed towards development and security,” Akpabio said. He also prayed for national peace and prosperity, reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to collaborate with the executive on vital reforms.

Security experts argue that decentralizing policing authority could be a game-changer for Nigeria, particularly in regions struggling with persistent criminal activity. State Police would allow for context-specific strategies, tailored intelligence operations, and rapid mobilization of resources in crisis situations.

However, analysts caution that the successful implementation of State Police requires clear legislative guidelines, adequate funding, and oversight mechanisms to prevent abuse of power. Constitutional amendments would need to define the operational scope, accountability structures, and coordination with federal law enforcement agencies.

Civil society groups have long advocated for the establishment of State Police, citing the limitations of the centralized Nigeria Police Force in addressing local security threats. Proponents argue that the current model often leads to delayed responses and overstretched personnel, particularly in remote or high-risk areas.

Tinubu’s call to the Senate marks a critical step in translating these discussions into actionable policy. By initiating the legislative process to amend the constitution, the President hopes to create a legal foundation for state-level security forces that can operate alongside federal agencies while respecting human rights and promoting community engagement.

As Nigeria grapples with complex security challenges, the debate over State Police highlights the need for innovative solutions that balance federal oversight with local responsiveness. Experts contend that successful decentralization could not only reduce crime rates but also improve public confidence in law enforcement, support economic activities, and strengthen democratic governance.

In conclusion, President Tinubu’s appeal to the Senate underscores the urgency of reforming Nigeria’s security architecture. By amending the constitution to accommodate State Police, the government aims to empower states, enhance law enforcement efficiency, and provide a safer environment for citizens, businesses, and communities across the country.

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The federal government has announced plans to involve retired military officers in community policing to reclaim areas previously controlled by terrorists and bandits.

The initiative, titled the “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P),” aims to harness the expertise of military veterans to restore security and stimulate economic development.

Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru disclosed the initiative during a press briefing in Abuja marking the commencement of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

He explained that the programme will involve veterans in reinforcing local security and initiating projects in agriculture, mining, and other sectors to prevent the resurgence of insurgency while revitalizing local economies.

Badaru added that a dedicated committee is finalizing the implementation framework. He also highlighted digital initiatives to support veterans and troops, including a “Thank A Soldier” QR Code for sending messages of appreciation, and plans to review the Nigerian Legion Act, renaming it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN) to strengthen legal protections and reintegration programmes.

The minister noted that under President Tinubu’s administration, over 13,000 terrorists have been neutralized, more than 17,000 arrested, nearly 10,000 hostages rescued, and 1,900 illegal refining sites destroyed. More than 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP combatants and their families have surrendered, enabling displaced communities to return home.

Through these measures, the government seeks to combine security operations with socio-economic interventions, ensuring sustainable peace and development in previously unstable regions.

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In a moving gesture of gratitude and recognition, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has awarded a fully-furnished two-bedroom home to a dedicated health worker, Mrs. Marbel Ijeoma Duaka, who has served in the insurgency-hit town of Mafa for over two decades.

Mrs. Duaka, originally from Anambra State, has spent 24 years working at the Primary Healthcare Centre in Mafa and was praised for her unwavering commitment, particularly during the height of the Boko Haram insurgency when many fled the area.

Presenting her with the keys to the house, Governor Zulum paid tribute to her resilience and service, noting, “She has remained in Mafa without interruption for more than two decades, even during the peak of the Boko Haram crisis. While others fled, she stayed—despite being a non-indigene.”

Zulum, who revealed that Duaka had treated members of his own family, including his mother, further instructed that the property be allocated directly in her name. “Do not leave Mafa, even after your retirement,” he urged.

In addition to the housing gift, the governor announced an automatic employment offer for Duaka’s son, Anthony, a graduate of Banking and Finance. He is to assume a position at Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri, with immediate effect.

The recognition came as part of a larger ceremony in Mafa Local Government Area, where 72 teachers and health workers were granted housing units in appreciation of their service to the state.

This isn’t the first time Governor Zulum has recognized non-indigenous workers for their dedication. In 2022, he awarded a house to Mrs. Obiageli Mazi, a teacher from Abia State, after 31 years of exemplary service in Borno.

An emotional Mrs. Duaka described the day as the most joyful of her life. “Today is the happiest day for me. His Excellency has honored me beyond words. He gave me a scholarship to pursue a BSc in Health Education, and now he’s given my son a job and me a house. I am truly grateful.”

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