Nigerian Governors Back State Police, Demand Safeguards and Funding Clarity

Nigeria's 36 state governors have voiced their support for the creation of state police forces but are insisting on constitutional safeguards and a clear framework to guide their establishment. A significant point of contention is the proposal that states would require approval from the National Assembly before setting up their own police, a condition the governors believe would undermine autonomy and effectiveness.

The governors agreed on the necessity of state policing due to the country's security challenges. However, the detailed parameters remain unclear, prompting their decision to engage more closely with federal lawmakers and other stakeholders. They advocate for moving policing from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List, which would empower states to play a more active role in addressing local security issues.

While not explicitly stated in the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) communiqué, sources revealed that funding is another major concern. The proposed framework suggests a three percent allocation from the Federation Account, which some governors find inadequate to cover even the salaries of recruits, let alone equipment and training.

Despite these concerns, the NGF, led by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, unanimously backed the immediate establishment of state police, emphasizing that the structure must be constitutionally guaranteed and aligned with federalism and citizens' rights. The forum received presentations on efforts to support state police establishment and consulted with state attorneys-general to review proposed constitutional amendments and frameworks. The outcomes of these consultations are expected to strengthen the states' collective position.

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We, members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), at our meeting held today, deliberated o