Governors Endorse State Police, NEC Awaits Comprehensive Report

Governors from Nigeria’s 36 states have reached a consensus on the establishment of state police as a solution to the country’s escalating security challenges. The decision was a key outcome of the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The proposal to introduce state police has been under discussion for months, with states providing submissions to justify its necessity. At the NEC meeting in November, Adamawa, Kebbi, Kwara, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were yet to submit reports. However, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani confirmed that all states, except the FCT, have now completed their submissions.

Governor Sani highlighted the growing support for state-controlled policing, emphasizing its potential to address region-specific security issues. “Virtually every state faces unique challenges, and a centralized policing system has proven insufficient to cover ungoverned spaces or provide adequate personnel,” he noted.

The push for state police has gained traction amid widespread concerns over Nigeria’s overstretched security agencies. Advocates argue that decentralized policing will enable states to adopt tailored security strategies, bolstering the safety of citizens.

Despite the broad agreement among governors, the council deferred a final decision on the matter to its January meeting. According