Nigeria can no longer postpone police reform. Years of terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and violent crime have exposed the limits of a centrally controlled policing system. As lawmakers amend the Constitution to create state police, they must focus on building a system that protects Nigerians rather than political interests.
The proposal is more than another constitutional amendment. It offers the country a chance to redesign policing so communities receive quicker responses, better intelligence and stronger protection. However, the reform will succeed only if the legal framework is practical and effective.
Why state police matters
Supporters of state police have long argued that security is local. Officers who understand the language, culture and terrain of the communities they serve can gather intelligence more effectively. They can also respond faster to security threats before criminals strike.
Nigeria’s worsening security situation has strengthened that argument. Communities across the country continue to suffer attacks from terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups. These challenges demand a policing structure that responds quickly to local realities.
Greater responsibility for governors
State police will also change the responsibilities of governors. For years, many governors blamed constitutional limits for their inability to direct security operations. Once state police becomes operational, that excuse will lose its relevance.
Citizens will expect governors to take direct responsibility for protecting lives and property. They will also expect measurable improvements in security across their states.
However, governors must never use state police as political tools. Any attempt to intimidate opponents or interfere with democratic processes will defeat the purpose of the reform and weaken public confidence.
National Assembly must build safeguards
The National Assembly therefore carries enormous responsibility. Lawmakers must create a legal framework that promotes professionalism, accountability and operational independence.
Appointment procedures, disciplinary measures, funding arrangements and oversight mechanisms should remain clear and transparent. Strong safeguards will reduce the risk of political interference.
The proposed role of the National Police Council is equally important. The council must remain impartial and base every decision on the law rather than political pressure.
Funding and recruitment are critical
Creating state police without adequate funding will only create another struggling institution. States that establish police services must invest in recruitment, training, equipment, technology and personnel welfare.
Recruitment should also remain transparent. State police should attract qualified and disciplined officers instead of becoming channels for political patronage.
Traditional rulers, community leaders and credible civil society organisations can support recruitment by identifying suitable candidates and promoting accountability.
Federal and state police must work together
State police should complement the Nigeria Police Force, not compete with it. Criminals do not respect state boundaries. Therefore, both police systems must share intelligence and conduct joint operations whenever necessary.
Nigeria can also learn from other federal countries that successfully operate state or regional police services. While no model is perfect, those experiences can help lawmakers develop effective safeguards.
Security must remain the priority
Time is no longer on Nigeria’s side. Every delay leaves more communities exposed to kidnappers, terrorists and violent criminals. Even so, lawmakers should not sacrifice quality for speed. They must produce legislation that will stand the test of time.
Ultimately, Nigerians will judge state police by its results, not by political promises. The reform will succeed only when families can travel safely, children can attend school without fear and communities can live without constant threats. That should remain the National Assembly’s guiding principle as it concludes one of the country’s most significant security reforms.
