Govs engage attorneys-general on state police structure

The Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) has engaged state Attorneys-General in consultations regarding the proposed establishment of state police. The discussions place a strong emphasis on ensuring constitutional safeguards, upholding federalism, and protecting citizens' rights within any new policing framework.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, speaking after the forum's second meeting of 2026 in Abuja, stated that the consultations focused on reviewing proposed constitutional amendments and developing an appropriate structure for the policing system. He noted that the governors stressed that any state police system must be firmly rooted in the constitution and aligned with Nigeria's federal system. Ongoing consultations, he added, aim to consolidate a common position among the states.

The governors reaffirmed their support for the creation of state police, a measure that has gained traction over two decades of severe insecurity driven by groups like Boko Haram and various bandit syndicates. These persistent threats have resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions, despite efforts by the Federal Government and security agencies.

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The forum received a presentation from the NGF Secretariat and a delegation of the Honourable Attorneys-General of the states on efforts to support establishing state police in Nigeria.

Discussions on state police have advanced legislatively, with the House of Representatives passing a bill to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow for their establishment. The Senate has also passed the bill for a second reading and referred it to the Committee on Constitution Review. Governor Abiodun reiterated that governors emphasized the need for state police to be constitutionally sound, respect federalism, and protect citizens' rights, with consultation outcomes expected to strengthen the states' collective stance.

The forum also received a presentation on the National Nutrition 774 Initiative, reaffirming the governors' commitment to improving nutrition outcomes and reducing malnutrition.

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Governors emphasised the need for the state police to be constitutionally sound and aligned with federalism and citizens’ rights.