In a major push to decentralize Nigeria’s security architecture, President Bola Tinubu has formally called on the 10th Senate to initiate the constitutional amendment process required to establish State Police.

The President made this appeal during an interfaith breaking of fast with senators at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. This move marks a transition from political discussion to active legislative pursuit of one of the most significant security reforms in Nigeria’s history.

President Tinubu framed the establishment of state-controlled police forces as a matter of urgent national survival, focusing on three main goals:

• Reclaiming the Forests: He specifically noted that state police are necessary to “take over our forests from marauders,” targeting the hideouts of bandits and kidnappers.
• Grassroots Intelligence: The President argued that a decentralized structure would enhance rapid response and allow for more effective community-led intelligence gathering.
• Protecting the Future: He emphasized that the reform is essential to “free our children from fear,” particularly in regions where schools have been targeted by insurgents.

This call to the Senate follows a string of related developments earlier this week:

1. Governor Endorsement: On Monday, February 23, the President met with state governors who reiterated their support for the move.
2. IGP Transition: The appointment of Acting IGP Tunji Disu on Wednesday provides a new leadership backdrop for these reforms as the federal police prepare to eventually integrate with or complement state-level forces.

“What I will ask for tonight is for you to start thinking how best to amend the Constitution to incorporate State Police… We must unite in a way that our forefathers contemplated.” — President Bola Tinubu