President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to establishing state police as part of broader reforms aimed at addressing insecurity across Nigeria.
The President made the declaration during an interfaith breaking of the fast with state governors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where Muslim and Christian leaders are currently observing Ramadan and Lent, respectively.
Security As Foundation For Prosperity
In his remarks, Tinubu emphasised that security remains the bedrock of national development, stressing that economic growth, agricultural productivity, and social stability depend heavily on a safe environment.
“Security is the foundation of prosperity. Without it, farms cannot flourish, businesses cannot grow, and families cannot sleep in peace,” he stated.
The President assured Nigerians that campaign promises made ahead of the 2023 general elections would not be delayed, including reforms targeted at strengthening the country’s security architecture.
Push For State Policing
Tinubu said the move to establish state police is driven by practical necessity rather than political considerations. According to him, decentralising certain security responsibilities would empower states to respond more effectively to local threats while maintaining national cohesion.
“We will establish state police to curb insecurity. This is not about politics; it is about practicality,” he declared.
The proposal for state policing has long been debated in Nigeria, with supporters arguing that localised security structures could improve intelligence gathering and rapid response, while critics have raised concerns about potential misuse at the subnational level.
Meeting With Governors
The President hosted the governors for an interfaith engagement at Aso Villa, using the occasion to urge them to intensify grassroots outreach and ensure inclusive development.
He commended their efforts during the holy season but challenged them to extend support to underserved communities.
Tinubu called for unity beyond religious, ethnic, or political divides, stressing that development and compassion must transcend sectional interests.
Reform And Unity
The President underscored the need for bold reforms in areas where current systems are underperforming. He argued that meaningful change requires collaboration between federal and state authorities.
“We must be bold enough to reform what is not working. We must be united enough to protect what we hold dear,” he said.
Tinubu expressed confidence that collaborative governance and strengthened security institutions would position Nigeria for long-term stability.
Broader Implications
The Tinubu state police pledge signals renewed momentum around constitutional and institutional reforms aimed at addressing rising insecurity in parts of the country.
If implemented, the policy would represent a significant shift in Nigeria’s centralised policing structure, potentially redefining federal–state security relations.
Observers will be watching closely to see how the administration navigates legislative processes and stakeholder consultations required to bring the proposal to fruition.
For now, the President’s assurance reflects a firm policy direction: enhanced decentralisation, reinforced security mechanisms, and a commitment to fulfilling electoral promises.
