Nigeria’s governors have again thrown their weight behind the push for state police, describing it as a crucial step toward addressing the country’s growing security concerns.
The position was reached during the Nigeria Governors’ Forum meeting in Abuja, where members also endorsed initiatives focused on nutrition, agriculture and energy development.
Presenting the outcome of the meeting, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun said governors reviewed ongoing efforts toward the establishment of state police and engaged with state attorneys-general on the legal framework required for its implementation.
“The Forum received a presentation from the NGF Secretariat and a delegation of the Honourable Attorneys-General of the States on efforts to support establishing State Police in Nigeria. It noted a dedicated consultation with the Attorneys-General to review the proposed constitutional amendments and frameworks.
“Governors emphasised the need for the State Police to be constitutionally sound and aligned with federalism and citizens’ rights. The Forum noted the collaborative effort and added that the consultation outcomes would strengthen the States’ collective position.”
The governors noted that insecurity, including insurgency and bandit attacks, continues to threaten lives and livelihoods across several parts of the country, making security reforms increasingly urgent.
They also renewed their commitment to tackling malnutrition and improving child welfare through the National Nutrition 774 Initiative.
“The Forum received a presentation from the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning on progress under the National Nutrition 774 Initiative. The Forum reaffirmed the Governors’ commitment to improving nutrition outcomes and reducing child malnutrition across Nigeria.”
In addition, the forum considered proposals backed by the World Bank aimed at boosting agricultural productivity, strengthening food security and supporting early childhood development.
Abiodun said, “The Forum received a briefing from the World Bank Country Office on the proposed Country Partnership Framework for Nigeria covering the period FY2026–2032; the proposed Nigeria Sustainable Agricultural Value-Chains for Growth. Programme, a results-based initiative designed to improve agricultural productivity, strengthen value chains, increase private sector participation, enhance food security, and Early Childhood Development.”
The governors further expressed support for the National Solar Super-Grid project, saying it could help expand electricity access and stimulate economic activities nationwide.
“The Forum noted the initiative’s potential to support industrialisation, improve energy security, strengthen state electricity markets, and accelerate economic growth,” he added.
They pledged continued cooperation with federal authorities and development partners to drive reforms capable of improving living standards and economic opportunities across the country.
