President Bola Tinubu has formally transmitted a constitutional amendment bill to the House of Representatives seeking legal backing for the establishment of state police, in what is regarded as the most far-reaching proposal to reform Nigeria’s policing system since the return to democratic rule.
In a letter dated June 15, 2026, and read during Tuesday’s plenary by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the President urged lawmakers to fast-track consideration of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026.
Tinubu described the proposal as a central pillar of his administration’s security reform agenda, saying it would create the constitutional framework for state police services while strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to address evolving security threats.
According to the President, the bill builds on previous legislative efforts by the House of Representatives and introduces safeguards designed to ensure the effective operation of a dual policing structure.
Nigeria currently operates a centrally controlled police system under the 1999 Constitution. However, growing insecurity—including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence—has intensified calls for decentralised policing, with several states already relying on regional security outfits to complement federal agencies.
If approved by the National Assembly and ratified by at least 24 state Houses of Assembly, the amendment would establish a constitutionally recognised dual policing system, enabling both the Federal Government and state governments to operate separate police services.
The proposal is expected to reignite national debate over the structure, funding, oversight and accountability mechanisms required to prevent abuse while improving security across the country.
