Tinubu Pushes for State Police as Security Crisis Deepens, Urges Senate to Amend Constitution

Abuja, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu has formally called on the Senate to amend Nigeria’s Constitution to establish state police, describing the move as critical to tackling escalating insecurity across the country.

Speaking during an interfaith Iftar with senators at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday night, the President said Nigeria’s current security structure must evolve to confront the growing threats of banditry, terrorism and insurgency.

“We are facing terrorism, banditry, and insurgency. But we will never fail to make a right response to this cause,” Tinubu told lawmakers. “What I will ask for tonight is for you to start thinking how best to amend the constitution to incorporate the state police for us to secure our country, take over our forests from marauders, and free our children from fear.”

Why State Police Is Back on the Agenda

The debate over state policing has long divided policymakers, with advocates arguing that decentralised security would allow faster, community-based responses to crime. Opponents, however, have warned about the potential for political misuse at the state level.

Tinubu’s renewed push comes amid persistent attacks in parts of the North-West, North-East and North-Central regions, where armed groups have targeted villages, highways and forests.

By urging constitutional reform, the President signalled that his administration is prepared to pursue structural changes rather than temporary security measures.

Tinubu Defends Economic Reforms

Beyond security, Tinubu used the gathering to defend his administration’s sweeping economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and changes to foreign exchange policy.

He described the previous subsidy regime as riddled with “monumental corruption” and insisted that ending it was necessary to stabilise the economy.

“What we gave up and what we stopped is monumental corruption in the subsidy system,” he said, adding that Nigeria is now enjoying greater economic stability and is positioned for prosperity.

The President praised senators for supporting his reform agenda, saying collaboration between the executive and legislature has been key to implementing difficult but necessary policies.

What Happens Next?

Any move to introduce state police would require a constitutional amendment — a process demanding broad support in the National Assembly and approval by at least two-thirds of state assemblies.

As insecurity remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, the call for state policing is expected to intensify political debate in the weeks ahead.