The agreement to create state police as a means of bolstering security across Nigeria was a significant outcome of the meeting held between President Bola Tinubu and the 36 State governors at the State House in Abuja. According to Information and National Orientation Minister, Idris Mohammed, who briefed the media on the meeting’s outcome, there was acknowledgment of the need for security improvements nationwide. This included a focus on increasing the numerical strength of forest rangers and exploring the possibility of establishing State Police forces.
While further discussions will be held between the federal government and the states on this issue, Mohammed stated that a bill will be sent to the National Assembly for necessary constitutional amendments. The move towards creating State Police reflects a recognition of the evolving security challenges facing Nigeria and the need for localized approaches to address them effectively.
In addition to security concerns, the meeting also addressed the food crisis gripping the nation. Mohammed disclosed that the National Security Adviser, Director General of State Services, and Inspector General of Police have been tasked with collaborating with state governors to address hoarding concerns, particularly in light of soaring commodity prices. There was also emphasis on the need for enhanced investments in agriculture to combat food shortages, with a declaration to halt food importation to bolster Nigeria’s self-sufficiency and potential as a net exporter.
Overall, the decisions made at the meeting signal a concerted effort by the federal government and state governors to tackle pressing security and economic challenges facing Nigeria, with a focus on localized solutions and collaboration between different levels of government.
