ABUJA — The 36 state governors under the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) have renewed their call for the swift establishment of state police, insisting that any framework must be constitutionally sound and aligned with the principles of federalism and citizens’ rights.
The governors made the position known after their second meeting in Abuja, where they reviewed ongoing efforts to support constitutional amendments aimed at creating state police across the country.
Speaking through a communiqué issued by NGF Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the forum said it received presentations from the NGF Secretariat and a delegation of state Attorneys-General on the proposed state police framework.
According to the governors, consultations with Attorneys-General were held to examine constitutional amendments and operational frameworks required for the successful implementation of state policing.
The forum stressed the need for a structure that respects democratic principles, protects citizens’ rights and strengthens Nigeria’s federal system.
“The Forum received a presentation from the NGF Secretariat and a delegation of the Attorneys-General of the states on efforts to support establishing State Police in Nigeria. It noted a dedicated consultation with the Attorneys-General to review the proposed constitutional amendments and frameworks,” the communiqué stated.
“Governors emphasised the need for State Police to be constitutionally sound and aligned with federalism and citizens’ rights. The Forum noted the collaborative effort and added that the consultation outcomes would strengthen the states’ collective position.”
The renewed push comes days after the House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment bill seeking the creation of state police, with 289 lawmakers voting in favour and only one member opposing the proposal. The bill also passed second reading in the Senate.
The governors noted that the proposed framework includes governance structures, financing models, human capital standards, digital systems and oversight mechanisms designed to ensure accountability and effectiveness.
Beyond security, the forum also reiterated its commitment to ongoing power sector reforms, pledging to deepen collaboration among stakeholders to expand access to reliable and affordable electricity across the country.
The governors said stronger coordination between states and national institutions remains critical to delivering improved security, infrastructure and economic outcomes for Nigerians.