President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday night called on the National Assembly to begin the process of amending the Constitution to allow the creation of State Police, describing the move as necessary to address Nigeria’s worsening security situation.
The President made the appeal during an interfaith breaking of fast with members of the Senate at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
He said Nigeria was currently facing severe security threats, including terrorism, banditry, and insurgency, stressing that constitutional backing for State Police would help secure forests, protect communities, and restore confidence among citizens.
“What I am asking for tonight is for you to start thinking about how best to amend the Constitution to incorporate State Police, so we can secure our country, reclaim our forests from criminals, and free our children from fear,” Tinubu told the lawmakers.
He commended the Senate for its consistent support in tackling national challenges and assured them that he valued their partnership.
“You have always responded positively to these calls. I appreciate all the critical support I have received and will never take it for granted,” he said.
The President’s latest appeal follows a similar assurance he gave to state governors during an Iftar dinner earlier in the week, where he promised that the establishment of State Police would not be delayed.
He stated at the time that State Police would play a key role in strengthening security and combating criminal activities across the country.
Currently, policing remains under the exclusive legislative list, meaning only the Federal Government controls the Nigeria Police Force, while state governments rely on the federal structure for internal security.
The establishment of State Police would require an amendment to the Constitution. Such an amendment must be approved by a two-thirds majority in both the Senate and the House of Representatives and also endorsed by at least 24 state Houses of Assembly.
Tinubu also responded to criticisms that his administration was weakening opposition parties due to the recent defection of some politicians to the ruling All Progressives Congress.
He dismissed the allegations, saying he could not be blamed for political decisions made by individuals.
“Critics will always talk and call you different names. When they accused me of killing the opposition, I didn’t have a gun. I cannot blame anyone for leaving what they consider a sinking ship,” he said.
The President emphasised the need for unity among political leaders, noting that insecurity remains a common threat that requires collective action.
“We must work together in unity as our founding fathers envisioned, to strengthen our democracy and protect our citizens,” he added.
He also praised the National Assembly for supporting key economic reforms introduced by his administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange system.
According to him, the subsidy regime was deeply flawed and associated with widespread corruption, which his government chose to end.
“What we stopped was monumental corruption linked to subsidy and foreign exchange arbitrage. We decided not to be part of that system,” Tinubu said.
The President maintained that the country was beginning to experience economic stability and expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future.
“You can see the direction Nigeria is heading. We are achieving stability, and there is hope for prosperity. We must continue to work hard to sustain the progress,” he stated.
Tinubu also reflected on the significance of Ramadan coinciding with the Christian Lent season, describing it as a period for reflection, sacrifice, compassion, and unity.
He urged Nigerians to embrace the values of peace and togetherness for national development.
Tinubu Urges National Assembly to Amend Constitution for State Police
