The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has advanced efforts toward the creation of state police, submitting a comprehensive proposal to the Nuhu Ribadu for onward transmission to the National Assembly of Nigeria.
NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, made this known on Sunday after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos.
He explained that consultations on the proposed state policing system are ongoing among key security stakeholders under the coordination of the National Security Adviser, with the governors’ submission forming part of the broader framework being developed.
“Discussions are ongoing among security organisations, and the NGF has made its contribution. The document will now be forwarded to the National Assembly to establish a legal framework for state police,” AbdulRazaq said.
The development marks a significant step in the long-debated move to decentralise policing in Nigeria amid rising security challenges across the country.
Reaffirming their position, the governors pledged to deepen collaboration with security agencies to tackle insecurity and improve governance outcomes.
“As governors, we are committed to strengthening our partnership with security forces to steadily defeat terrorism, expand infrastructure, and improve the living standards of our people,” he stated.
AbdulRazaq also used the occasion to commend President Tinubu for his recent diplomatic engagement in the United Kingdom, describing the visit as historic and beneficial to Nigeria’s global standing.
“The successful state visit to the United Kingdom, the first in 37 years, is bold and significant. It reflects a new phase of leadership and has yielded meaningful investment prospects,” he said.
He expressed optimism that agreements reached during the visit would deepen bilateral relations and deliver economic gains for Nigerians.
According to him, the President’s Renewed Hope agenda is already fostering a stronger sense of inclusion and responsibility among citizens.
“Every Nigerian now has a stake in nation-building, and we believe this will ultimately translate into improved security nationwide,” AbdulRazaq added.
He stressed the need for unity and collective responsibility in addressing the country’s security challenges, urging leaders and citizens alike to embrace shared values for national progress.
“Together, we must ensure that security breaches across the country are brought to an end,” he said.
The NGF chairman further revealed that about 25 governors attended the meeting despite the short notice, underscoring their support for the President’s leadership.
Also in attendance were Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, among other senior officials.
The push for state police has remained a contentious national issue, with advocates arguing it would enhance local security architecture, while critics warn of possible political abuse at the state level.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, had earlier set up a committee to develop operational guidelines for the proposed system, signalling growing institutional momentum behind the initiative.
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