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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the leadership of the 10th Senate to amend the constitution to create a legal framework for the establishment of state police, arguing that Nigeria’s worsening security challenges require structural reform.
Speaking during an interfaith breakfast with senators at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President described decentralised policing as an urgent national priority. He said the country must rethink its security architecture to respond more effectively to terrorism, banditry and insurgency.
“We are facing terrorism, banditry, and insurgency. But we will never fail to make a right response to this cause,” Tinubu said. “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 argued that a decentralised policing structure would complement federal security agencies while enabling states to respond swiftly to threats within their jurisdictions. According to him, state police would strengthen grassroots intelligence gathering and promote community-focused law enforcement.
Tinubu also commended the cordial working relationship between the executive and the Senate, stressing that unity across arms of government remains essential to confronting insecurity.
“It is a good thing that we are working in harmony, we are looking forward to a country that evolves, a country that takes care of its citizens and protects all,” he said.
He further thanked lawmakers for supporting key economic reforms, including the removal of the fuel subsidy and tax policy changes, adding that ending the subsidy regime halted “monumental corruption” and foreign exchange arbitrage.
President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio praised Tinubu’s leadership, describing the administration’s reforms as bold and necessary. He said increased revenues at sub-national levels have enhanced governors’ capacity to fund infrastructure projects.
Akpabio also offered prayers for national peace and prosperity, underscoring the significance of cooperation between the executive and legislature at what he described as a critical moment for the country.
