State Police: Tinubu sends constitutional amendment bill to Reps

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged the House of Representatives to amend the 1999 Constitution to pave the way for the establishment of state police services, describing the proposal as a key step towards strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture to address the country’s growing security challenges.

In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, the President transmitted the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026, for legislative consideration.

Tinubu explained that the proposed constitutional amendment seeks to create a legal framework for the establishment of state police services across the federation.

According to him, the bill builds on previous legislative efforts by the House of Representatives and introduces additional safeguards to ensure the effective implementation of a dual policing system involving both the Federal Government and the states.

“The proposed legislation is a critical component of our administration’s strategy to reorganise Nigeria’s security architecture to better protect our citizens,” the President stated.

He expressed confidence that lawmakers would give the bill accelerated consideration and ensure its timely passage.

The renewed push comes amid sustained calls by state governors, security experts and other stakeholders for the establishment of state police as part of efforts to tackle rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and communal violence across the country.

If approved by the National Assembly and subsequently endorsed by the constitutionally required number of state Houses of Assembly, the amendment will provide the legal basis for states to establish and operate their own police services alongside the Nigeria Police Force.