President Bola Tinubu has formally transmitted a bill to the Senate seeking to establish state police services across Nigeria, according to a statement from the presidency on June 24, 2026. The bill marks a significant step in the federal government's efforts to reform the country's security architecture.
The proposed legislation, which has been sent to the Senate for consideration, aims to address growing security challenges by allowing states to create their own police forces. This move follows months of consultations with state governors, security experts, and lawmakers.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio confirmed receipt of the bill and said it would be given expedited consideration. The bill is expected to spark debate on issues such as funding, training standards, and coordination with federal law enforcement agencies.
If passed, the state police bill would amend the 1999 Constitution to permit states to establish and control their own police services, a long-standing demand from many Nigerian leaders who argue that the current centralized system is ineffective against local security threats.
