SUNTV Global Channel — February 24, 2026
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s plan to establish state police across Nigeria, declaring that his campaign promises ahead of the 2023 general elections will not be postponed.
The President made the statement on Monday night while hosting state governors at an interfaith breaking of fast held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, organised to mark the ongoing Ramadan and Lenten seasons.
Speaking during the gathering, Tinubu emphasised that security remains the foundation of national development, warning that economic growth, agriculture, and social stability cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear and violence.
“What I promised Nigerians will not be postponed,” the President said. “Security is the foundation of prosperity. Without it, farms cannot flourish, businesses cannot grow, and families cannot sleep in peace.”
He stated that the proposed creation of state police would empower sub-national governments to respond more effectively to local security threats while strengthening the country’s overall security architecture.
According to Tinubu, the move is not politically motivated but driven by practical necessity.
“We will establish state police to curb insecurity. This is about empowering states with the tools to protect their people while strengthening our national framework,” he added.
Rising Debate Over State Policing
Calls for decentralised policing have intensified in recent years as Nigeria continues to face persistent attacks by bandits, kidnappers, and armed groups in several regions.
Critics of the current centralised policing system argue that state governors—often described as chief security officers—lack operational control over security agencies, limiting their ability to respond swiftly during crises.
However, the President’s proposal will require constitutional amendments, which must be approved by the National Assembly and endorsed by at least two-thirds of state Houses of Assembly.
Previous attempts to restructure the country’s policing system have stalled due to concerns that state authorities could abuse local police for political purposes.
Call for Grassroots Engagement
Tinubu also used the occasion to urge governors to deepen grassroots engagement, particularly during the ongoing religious season observed by Muslims and Christians.
He encouraged state leaders to prioritise outreach to vulnerable populations, including unemployed youths and women facing economic hardship.
“We must reach the young man who feels forgotten and lift the woman who carries her family on tired shoulders,” he said.
The President further stressed that national development must transcend religious, ethnic, and political divides.
“Nigeria Will Be Safer” — Tinubu
Expressing optimism about the country’s future, Tinubu said his administration remains determined to “rescue” Nigeria from insecurity through unity between federal and state governments.
“We must be bold enough to reform what is not working. Nigeria will be safer. Nigeria will be stronger,” he concluded.
The renewed push for state police is expected to spark fresh debate across political, legal, and civil society circles in the coming months.
