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Lawmakers hail milestone in Nigeria’s push for true federalism and community-based security

ABUJA, Nigeria — The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures has welcomed Wednesday’s Senate passage of the State Police Bill for second reading, describing it as a “significant milestone” in the national conversation on security and true federalism.

The bill, part of ongoing constitutional amendment efforts, now advances to the next legislative stage. In a statement signed by Conference Chairman and Delta State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, the 36 State Houses of Assembly have pledged “diligent consideration” of the legislation.

“Security is local, and our people deserve policing architecture that understands their terrain and challenges,” Guwor stated, reaffirming the Conference’s earlier support for the proposed law.

The statement emphasized that community-based policing, “properly structured under law, will enhance safety and response time across our states.”

With the bill now progressing, the Conference assured Nigerians that State Assemblies would engage stakeholders and conduct public hearings where necessary, in accordance with Section 9(2) of the 1999 Constitution.

The Speakers commended the Senate for its “bold step” and called on all stakeholders to sustain the conversation “with facts, patriotism, and a shared commitment to a safer Nigeria.”

“We remain committed to working with the National Assembly, the Executive, and all arms of government to deliver a constitutional amendment that strengthens democracy and governance at all levels,” the statement concluded.

The proposed legislation would establish state-controlled police forces, a departure from the current centralized Nigeria Police Force structure, addressing long-standing concerns about federal policing’s effectiveness in local contexts.

The bill now awaits further legislative scrutiny before any potential constitutional amendment can take effect.