Governors Submit Proposal To National Assembly

The Nigeria Governors Forum has submitted its input on the proposed state police structure, marking a key step toward possible legislative action on decentralised policing in Nigeria.

The Chairman of the forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed this during a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his residence in Ikoyi, Lagos.

According to AbdulRazaq, consultations on the establishment of state police are still ongoing among security stakeholders under the coordination of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

“On the issue of state police, discussions are ongoing amongst various security organisations, led by the National Security Advisor, 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,” the governor stated.

He reaffirmed the commitment of state governors to strengthening collaboration with security agencies to tackle terrorism, boost infrastructure, and improve citizens’ welfare.

“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,” AbdulRazaq said.

The NGF chairman also commended President Tinubu for his recent visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as a major diplomatic achievement.

“We congratulate you on the successful state visit to the United Kingdom and the many successes and investment proposals achieved during the trip.

“While our nation has always enjoyed a good relationship with the United Kingdom, the state visit, the first in 37 years, is bold and significant.

It speaks to new leadership in Nigeria,” he stated.

He expressed optimism that the agreements reached during the visit would deepen bilateral ties and promote economic growth.

“We are confident that the bilateral agreements presently signed and the new approach on issues of shared interest will strengthen the existing relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom and will bring more prosperity to our people,” he said.

AbdulRazaq further praised the administration’s governance approach.

“Your Excellency, we thank you for prosecuting the Renewed Hope agenda in a way that has made Nigerians proud more than ever before.

“Every Nigerian now has a stake in nation-building. We believe that this will translate to improved security in every part of our country,” he stated.

He stressed the importance of unity in addressing the country’s security challenges.

“Together, we must see that breaches of security all over the country come to an end,” he said.

The governor also urged Nigerians, particularly leaders, to embrace values such as piety, selflessness, compassion, unity, and mutual understanding to foster national stability and prosperity.

He noted that about 25 governors attended the meeting on short notice, reflecting their support for the President’s leadership.

“As you can see here today, we have about 25 governors who attend at short notice; it’s a respect we have for you and the leadership you’re providing for the nation,” AbdulRazaq said.

Also present at the meeting were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and other senior government officials.

The push for state police has remained a contentious national issue, with supporters arguing it will improve grassroots security, while critics warn about the risk of misuse by state authorities.

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, had earlier in February set up a committee to develop a framework for the possible implementation of state policing across the country.