State Police Crucial for Tackling Insecurity, Says Speaker Abbas

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has emphasized the urgent need to establish a multi-level policing system in Nigeria, describing it as a critical step toward addressing the nation’s deepening security challenges.
Abbas made the call on Wednesday during a public hearing on the Private Intelligence and Investigation Council Bill, 2024, organized by the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
Represented by Hon. Muktar Shagaya, who represents Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency, the Speaker said that the time had come for Nigeria to move beyond theoretical discussions on security reforms to concrete legislative and institutional action.
“Security reform has become a national priority. We can no longer afford to treat it as a matter of debate or theory; it must now move to the stage of decisive action,” Abbas stated.
He noted that the current centralized policing structure has proven inadequate in responding to the unique security needs of Nigeria’s diverse communities, stressing that a state and community-based policing framework would enhance intelligence gathering, rapid response, and public trust in law enforcement.
Abbas further commended the sponsors of the Private Intelligence and Investigation Council Bill, saying it aligns with the broader vision of professionalizing security management in the country.
He reiterated the commitment of the 10th House of Representatives to advancing legislative measures that will strengthen national security, improve coordination among security agencies, and ensure the protection of lives and property across the country.
The public hearing brought together key stakeholders from the security sector, civil society, and the private intelligence community, who shared perspectives on how to build a more efficient and multi-layered security architecture in Nigeria.