The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has confirmed that a legislative framework for the creation of state police forces across the country is set to be submitted to the National Assembly.

The announcement came after a meeting between governors and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at his Lagos residence, where security challenges in the country were a key focus.

NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq stated that the proposal will be formally forwarded through the office of the National Security Adviser to lawmakers for legislative action.

According to the governors, the proposed framework is aimed at enhancing state-level security, allowing states to take a more active role in tackling banditry, kidnappings, and insurgency, which have escalated in several regions.

The forum emphasized continued collaboration with federal security agencies, pledging joint efforts in counter-terrorism and community safety, even as the proposal awaits legislative scrutiny.

Security analysts note that while the submission marks a significant step toward decentralized policing, the creation of state police would require constitutional amendments, as policing currently falls under federal jurisdiction.

The NGF’s move aligns with President Tinubu’s security reform agenda, which includes empowering states to address localized security challenges more effectively.