Nigeria ready for state police says Federal Government
The Federal Government has declared that Nigeria is ready to establish state police, signaling a major shift in the country’s approach to internal security. The announcement comes amid renewed debate over decentralising policing powers to allow states to take greater responsibility for law enforcement and community safety.
According to senior government officials, consultations with stakeholders across the country have progressed significantly, and there is growing consensus that state police could help address rising insecurity. The Federal Government stated that the current centralised policing structure faces operational challenges due to Nigeria’s size and diverse security threats. Officials argue that state-controlled police units would improve response times, intelligence gathering and local accountability.
The push for state police has long generated mixed reactions. Supporters say decentralised policing will enhance grassroots security management and allow governors to respond swiftly to local crises. Critics, however, warn about the risk of political misuse and human rights violations if adequate safeguards are not embedded in the legal framework.
Government representatives emphasized that any move toward state police will require constitutional amendments and clear operational guidelines. They assured Nigerians that mechanisms would be put in place to prevent abuse of power and ensure coordination between federal and state security agencies. Discussions at the National Assembly are expected to play a key role in shaping the legal pathway for implementation.
Security analysts note that the debate over state police has intensified following increasing calls from governors and regional leaders who argue that localised control is essential to tackling banditry, kidnapping and communal conflicts. They add that successful implementation would depend on strong oversight structures, sustainable funding and professional training standards.
As conversations continue, the Federal Government maintains that it is committed to reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture. The declaration that Nigeria is ready for state police marks a significant development in ongoing efforts to modernise the nation’s law enforcement system.
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