Governors’ Forum Sets Out Framework For State Police Ahead Of Constitutional Amendment
Governors Begin Structural Planning for State Police Reform
THE Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has advanced preparatory work on the proposed establishment of state police, outlining key operational modalities in anticipation of an imminent constitutional amendment that could decentralise policing in the country.
According to a communiqué issued after its latest meeting in Abuja, the governors said the framework is designed to ensure that states are adequately prepared should the National Assembly approve the creation of subnational policing structures.
Core Elements of the Proposed Framework
The NGF framework focuses on building a uniform but flexible structure that states can adopt while maintaining national standards.
Governance and Oversight Structure
The proposal outlines clear command systems, accountability channels, and civilian oversight mechanisms to prevent abuse and ensure professionalism.
Financing Model for Sustainability
A major component of the plan addresses how state police forces will be funded, including potential revenue-sharing arrangements and budgetary safeguards.
Recruitment and Human Capital Standards
The governors emphasised the need for strict training requirements, competency benchmarks, and standardized personnel screening processes.
Digital and Operational Systems
Modern policing tools, including data management systems and digital surveillance infrastructure, form part of the readiness blueprint.
Push for Fiscal and Institutional Confidence
The NGF also stressed that any state police system must operate within a stable fiscal environment, calling for improved coordination between federal and subnational revenue systems.
They argued that effective policing would depend heavily on predictable funding and strong institutional trust across all tiers of government.
Security Context Driving Reform
The renewed push for state police is largely driven by ongoing security challenges across the country, including rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, and rural violence.
Governors say a decentralised system would allow for faster response times and more community-oriented policing.
