Federal authorities in Nigeria have unveiled a detailed seven-week roadmap aimed at transitioning the country from a centralized policing model to a system that permits state-level police forces. This initiative, spearheaded by the Presidential Working Group on the proposed National Policing Bill, invites public input through a two-week period of submitting memoranda and policy proposals. The goal is to develop a comprehensive legal and operational framework that establishes a dual-policing structure while ensuring accountability, transparency, and adherence to human rights standards. The plan outlines a structured process beginning with the collection of feedback from diverse stakeholders, including citizens, professionals, civil society organizations, security agencies, and state and local governments. These submissions will undergo review and integration into the draft bill, which will then face further national consultations before being finalized and forwarded to the National Assembly for consideration. The working group, chaired by Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, has set a timeline spanning from 27 July to 14 September 2026, culminating in the submission of the draft Executive Bill to President Bola Tinubu on 3 September 2026. The proposed framework emphasizes setting national minimum standards for state police, defining readiness and certification processes, clarifying jurisdictional responsibilities, ensuring independent oversight, upholding human rights, and guaranteeing sustainable funding. According to Gbajabiamila, any proposed state police service must demonstrate credible arrangements for recruitment, vetting, training, pay, pensions, equipment, custody, complaints, discipline, data management, firearms control, independent oversight, and financial sustainability before it can begin operations. This initiative comes amid broader efforts to enhance security across the country. In Abia State, Governor Alex Otti recently handed over the newly constructed Nigerian Air Force Administrative Complex in Umuahia to the Federal Government. The facility, which supports the Nigerian Air Force's operations in the region, underscores the collaborative approach between state and federal authorities in addressing security concerns. Otti emphasized that security of life and property is a fundamental right, and the handover symbolizes the benefits of intergovernmental cooperation in advancing shared security goals. Meanwhile, in Anambra State, the Agunechemba Security Squad conducted a successful operation to dismantle suspected gunmen’s camps in Orumba North and Orumba South Local Government Areas. The operation resulted in the recovery of arms, including two General Purpose Machine Guns and locally made rocket launchers, which were subsequently handed over to the Nigerian Army. The operation, based on intelligence gathering and undercover activities, marked a significant step in combating insecurity in the region. The Nigerian Army’s Chief of Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for the squad’s performance and reiterated the Army’s commitment to partnering with local security outfits to maintain order. Additionally, the federal government has reaffirmed its willingness to engage more deeply with religious leaders, including the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), to address national challenges. Following a recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, stated that collaboration with faith-based organizations and civil society is crucial for resolving issues ranging from security to economic hardship. The discussions covered topics such as security, education, public services, and religious freedom, highlighting the administration’s recognition of the role played by religious institutions in national development. These developments reflect a multifaceted strategy to bolster security, promote economic growth, and foster inclusive governance. As the federal government continues to refine its plans and engage with key stakeholders, the focus remains on creating a resilient and equitable security environment that serves the interests of all Nigerians.
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