Senate passes state police bill as Nigeria moves closer to decentralised policing

Nigeria has moved a step closer to establishing state police forces after the Senate passed a constitutional amendment bill aimed at decentralising policing across the country.

The development marks a significant milestone in a long-running national debate over security and policing, especially as Nigeria continues to face challenges such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes, and other criminal activities.

The proposed legislation seeks to create state-controlled police services that would operate alongside the existing Nigeria Police Force. The bill was approved after senators secured the required two-thirds majority through a manual voting process following technical issues with the chamber’s electronic voting system.

With both chambers of the National Assembly now backing the proposal, the focus has shifted to the 36 state Houses of Assembly. For the amendment to become law, at least 24 state legislatures must approve it.

The reform is widely regarded as one of the most important constitutional changes since Nigeria returned to democratic rule in 1999.

A major feature of the proposed amendment is the power it gives state governors to appoint Commissioners of Police for their respective states. However, such appointments would still require confirmation by the state House of Assembly.

Under the proposal, the federal police system would continue to be led by the Inspector-General of Police, while each state police service would be headed by a commissioner appointed by the governor and approved by lawmakers in the state.

Supporters of the bill believe state police will improve security by allowing local authorities to respond more effectively to crime and community-specific challenges. However, the proposal is expected to continue generating debate as it moves to state assemblies for final consideration.

If the required number of states approve the amendment, Nigeria could officially adopt a dual policing structure, marking a major shift from its long-standing federal-only policing system.