President Seeks Constitutional Backing for State Police

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appealed to the 10th Senate to consider constitutional amendments that would provide a legal framework for the establishment of State Police across Nigeria, describing the move as essential to tackling the country’s growing security challenges.

The appeal was made on Wednesday during an interfaith breakfast with senators at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where Tinubu stressed the urgency of decentralising policing to strengthen grassroots security and enhance states’ capacity to respond promptly to threats within their jurisdictions.

“We are facing terrorism, banditry, and insurgency. But we will never fail to make a right response to this cause. What I will ask for tonight is for you (Senators) to start thinking how best to amend the constitution to incorporate the State Police for us to secure our country, take over our forests from marauders, and free our children from fear,” the President said.

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Tinubu emphasised that a State Police structure would complement existing federal security forces and promote intelligence-led, community-focused law enforcement, improving local responsiveness to emerging threats. He described unity between the executive and legislature as vital to defeating terrorism and banditry nationwide.

In addition to security, the President acknowledged the Senate’s support in implementing key economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and tax policy adjustments. He highlighted the importance of collaborative reformist action to tackle corruption and strengthen Nigeria’s economy.

“You don’t have to chase me for dollars; you could see what Nigeria is today. You should be proud, and I am glad you are. What we are enjoying is a stable economy, and prosperity is beckoning us. We need to work hard, and this attendance means a lot to me,” Tinubu told the senators.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the President for hosting the interfaith event and for providing visionary leadership. He commended the administration’s reforms, noting that increased revenue allocation to sub-national governments now supports critical infrastructure development.

Akpabio also prayed for the nation’s peace and prosperity and encouraged continued collaboration between the executive and legislature to ensure national stability.

The President’s call signals a renewed push for constitutional reform aimed at decentralising security in Nigeria, reflecting his administration’s focus on both governance and public safety amid evolving security threats.