Tinubu Sends State Police Constitution Amendment Bill to Reps, Pushes Major Security Reform
President Bola Tinubu has formally asked the House of Representatives to begin work on a constitutional amendment that would pave the way for the creation of state police across Nigeria, marking what could become the biggest policing reform since the country returned to democratic rule in 1999.
In a letter dated June 15, 2026, and addressed to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, the President requested lawmakers to give urgent attention to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026.
The letter, which was read during Tuesday’s plenary session, explained that the proposed amendment is designed to establish a constitutional framework for state police services as part of efforts to improve the nation’s security system.
According to President Tinubu, the bill builds on previous constitutional review efforts by the House of Representatives while introducing additional safeguards to ensure that both federal and state police can operate effectively under a dual policing structure.
He said the proposal is an important part of his administration’s plan to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture and improve the country’s ability to tackle growing threats such as terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, communal clashes and other violent crimes.
The President also appealed to lawmakers to fast-track the legislative process, expressing confidence that the National Assembly would give the bill prompt consideration.
Nigeria currently operates a centralized police system under the Nigeria Police Force, as provided by the 1999 Constitution. However, increasing security challenges across the country have intensified calls for policing powers to be decentralized.
Many governors, security experts and constitutional reform advocates believe state police would improve intelligence gathering, speed up emergency response and strengthen community policing.
In recent years, several states have established regional security outfits such as Amotekun in the South-West, Ebube Agu in parts of the South-East, as well as various local vigilante groups to support federal security agencies.
Despite growing support, the proposal has continued to generate debate. Critics argue that giving governors control over state police could lead to political interference and abuse of power, especially during elections and political disputes.
Previous attempts to introduce state police through constitutional amendments failed to complete the required legislative process. For the current proposal to become law, it must secure approval from at least two-thirds of both chambers of the National Assembly and be ratified by no fewer than 24 of Nigeria’s 36 State Houses of Assembly.
If eventually passed, Nigeria would operate a dual policing system, allowing both the Federal Government and state governments to establish constitutionally recognized police services.
The bill is expected to spark fresh discussions among lawmakers, security experts, civil society groups and state governments on key issues such as funding, oversight, operational responsibilities and safeguards against misuse of state police.