The Senate has pledged to fast-track the State Police Framework as part of efforts to address rising insecurity, banditry, and abductions across Nigeria. Lawmakers say the move will accelerate constitutional amendments aimed at strengthening the country’s policing structure.
The announcement follows renewed national concerns over violent attacks and kidnappings in several parts of the country. Calls for decentralised policing have intensified in recent months, with stakeholders urging reforms to improve security response at the subnational level.
The Senate says it is now prepared to begin formal constitutional processes that would enable the establishment of state police across Nigeria.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Yemi Adaramodu, confirmed the development in an interview with Saturday PUNCH. He said the Red Chamber is committed to accelerating legislative steps required to amend the Constitution.
“Very soon. As I earlier told you, the Senate is fully prepared to commence the constitutional processes for the establishment of state police without delay,” Adaramodu said. He added that lawmakers would ensure adequate legislative backing for the proposed State Police Framework to improve national security.
“We will ensure that the necessary legislative stamina is accorded to the establishment of state police, so as to keep Nigerians safe and secure, and drive out rampaging bandits and other social marauders,” he said.
The Senate had earlier indicated that the constitutional process for state policing had already commenced. It also pledged support for measures targeting banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. Adaramodu further noted that the Senate is ready to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration in tackling insecurity through legislative reforms.
Nigeria has continued to face persistent security challenges, including terrorist attacks, kidnappings, and rural banditry. These developments have renewed debate over whether centralised policing remains effective in addressing localised security threats. The proposed State Police Framework is widely seen as part of broader efforts to restructure the country’s security architecture.
If implemented, the State Police Framework could significantly alter Nigeria’s policing system. It may improve rapid response to local security threats while also raising questions about coordination between federal and state security agencies. Security analysts say the success of the reform will depend on clear legal structures, funding mechanisms, and accountability systems.
