10 things to know about Nigeria’s proposed state police bill

Nigeria is considering a significant reform of its policing system through the proposed State Police Bill, which aims to decentralize law enforcement powers. If ratified by at least 24 state Houses of Assembly, the legislation would allow each of Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to establish and control its own police service, operating in parallel with the Federal Police Service.

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the bill, which is still subject to further constitutional processes, is aimed at decentralising policing to tackle insecurity more effectively.

The bill seeks to shift the policing model towards a more civilian-focused and community-oriented approach, reflected in the proposed name change from the Nigeria Police Force to the Nigeria Police Service. To oversee this new structure, the Nigeria Police Council would be reconstituted to include the President, all state governors, and key police officials. Additionally, each state would establish a State Police Service Council, chaired by the governor, to manage policy, administration, and accountability for its respective police force.

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Nigeria Police Force becomes Nigeria Police Service

Significant changes are also proposed for funding and appointments. The bill introduces separate funding streams: the Federal Police Service would be funded from the Federation's Consolidated Revenue Fund, while state governments would finance their own police services. The appointment process for leadership is also being revised, with the Inspector-General of Police serving a single, non-renewable four-year term. State Commissioners of Police would also have a four-year term, appointed by governors based on recommendations and confirmed by the State House of Assembly. The existing Police Service Commission would focus solely on the Federal Police Service, with states creating their own commissions for state police officers.

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For the first time, each of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory would have the power to establish and control its own police service, operating alongside the Federal Police Service.