36 State Speakers Back State Police As Final Approval Stage Begins
Momentum has continued to build around Nigeria’s proposed state police system as speakers of the 36 State Houses of Assembly and other key stakeholders have reportedly thrown their weight behind the constitutional amendment currently undergoing legislative consideration.
The development follows the recent passage of the State Police Bill by the Senate, which marks a major step in the long-running push to decentralise policing in the country amid rising insecurity concerns.
According to legislative updates, the backing from state assembly leaders is seen as a crucial phase in the approval process, as the bill now requires endorsement from at least 24 state legislatures before it can proceed further.
The proposal seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow states to establish and operate their own police structures alongside the federal police system, with the aim of improving local security response and intelligence gathering.
Supporters of the reform argue that decentralised policing will enable faster reaction to crimes, better community engagement, and more effective handling of security challenges across different regions.
However, the proposal has also continued to generate debate nationwide, with critics raising concerns about possible abuse by political actors if proper safeguards are not fully implemented.
Some state governors and lawmakers have expressed optimism that the reform will strengthen security architecture, especially in areas affected by banditry, kidnapping and communal clashes.
The process is now expected to move into the state assembly voting stage, which will determine whether the constitutional amendment secures the required approvals to advance to the next level.
If successfully passed by the required number of states, the bill will then proceed for final transmission before becoming part of the country’s legal framework.
The development is being closely watched as Nigeria edges closer to one of its most significant security reforms in decades.