Nigeria Governors Call for Constitutional State Police

State governors in Nigeria have unanimously renewed their call for the establishment of state police, emphasizing that any new system must be constitutionally sound, respect federalism, and protect citizens' rights. The decision was announced following a meeting of the Nigeria Governors' Forum held in Abuja from Wednesday, June 17, to early Thursday, June 18, 2026.

In a communiqué signed by the forum's chairman, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and presented by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, the governors stated they received a detailed presentation from the NGF Secretariat and a delegation of state attorneys-general. The consultations focused on reviewing proposed constitutional amendments and the legal frameworks required to establish state-level policing. The forum noted that these discussions would help consolidate a common position among the 36 states.

This renewed push occurs against a backdrop of persistent security challenges across Nigeria, including banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and communal clashes. Many officials and stakeholders argue that a decentralized policing structure is necessary for a more effective response. The governors' position aligns...