Nigeria Governors Forum Submits Formal State Police Framework to National Security Adviser for Immediate Legislative Action

The Nigeria Governors Forum presents a state police proposal to the NSA, moving the framework to the National Assembly for a new legislative security structure.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 23, 2026, 7:27 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Leadership News

A Formal Step Toward Decentralized Policing

The long standing debate over the decentralization of law enforcement in Nigeria has reached a critical administrative milestone. On March 22, 2026, the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) confirmed that it has officially submitted its comprehensive framework for the establishment of state police to the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA). According to Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, the NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, this submission represents a unified contribution from the nation’s state executives to the ongoing security dialogue led by the NSA's office.

Legislative Path to Security Reform

The transition from a conceptual framework to an operational reality now rests with the federal legislature. Governor AbdulRazaq clarified that the document provided to the NSA is intended for onward transmission to the National Assembly. According to the Chairman, the primary objective is to create a robust legislative framework that defines the powers, limitations, and operational scope of state level police forces. This move is seen as an essential prerequisite for any constitutional amendment that would allow states to manage their own internal security apparatus independently of the federal center.

Collaborative Commitments at the Presidential Level

During a high level meeting at the President's residence in Ikoyi, which was attended by approximately 25 governors, the NGF reaffirmed its dedication to a collaborative security strategy. AbdulRazaq emphasized that the governors are committed to strengthening their ties with existing federal security forces to steadily defeat domestic terrorism. According to the forum, this renewed partnership is not only focused on immediate tactical successes but also on expanding infrastructure and improving the general welfare of citizens as a deterrent to criminal activity.