Govs Submit State Police Proposal To NSA Ribadu, Awaits National Assembly Action

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum on Sunday disclosed that it has submitted its contribution to the proposed state police framework to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, with the document set to be transmitted to the National Assembly for legislative action.

Naija News reports that the Chairman of the forum and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, made the disclosure during a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos.

AbdulRazaq noted that consultations on state policing were ongoing among security stakeholders under the coordination of the NSA.

He said, “On the issue of state police, discussions are ongoing amongst various security organisations, led by the National Security Adviser, and the NGF has made its contribution.

“That document will be taken to the National Assembly to see how we can have a legislative framework for state police.”

The NGF chairman reiterated the commitment of governors to strengthening collaboration with security agencies to address insecurity across the country.

“As governors, we commit to renew our collaboration with security forces to defeat terrorism steadily, expand infrastructure opportunities and improve the lives of our people,” AbdulRazaq said.

He also stressed the need for collective efforts to end security breaches nationwide.

“Together, we must see that breaches of security all over the country come to an end,” he added.

AbdulRazaq congratulated President Tinubu on his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as historic and impactful.

“We congratulate you on the successful state visit to the United Kingdom and the many successes and investment proposals achieved during the trip.

“While our nation has always enjoyed a good relationship with the United Kingdom, the state visit, the first in 37 years, is bold and significant. It speaks to new leadership in Nigeria,” he said.

The governor expressed optimism that agreements reached during the visit would strengthen Nigeria’s relationship with the UK and boost economic prosperity.

“We are confident that the bilateral agreements presently signed and the new approach on issues of shared interest will strengthen the existing relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom and will bring more prosperity to our people,” he stated.

AbdulRazaq commended the President’s Renewed Hope agenda, noting that it had inspired greater citizen participation in nation-building.

“Your Excellency, we thank you for prosecuting the Renewed Hope agenda in a way that has made Nigerians proud more than ever before.

“Every Nigerian now has a stake in nation-building. We believe that this will translate to improved security in every part of our country,” he said.

The NGF chairman urged Nigerians, particularly leaders, to embrace values that promote national cohesion and security.

He called for commitment to piety, selflessness, compassion, unity, and mutual understanding as essential ingredients for collective prosperity.

AbdulRazaq revealed that about 25 governors attended the meeting at short notice, describing it as a sign of respect for the President’s leadership.

“As you can see here today, we have about 25 governors who attend at short notice; it’s a respect we have for you and the leadership you’re providing for the nation,” he said.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and other top government officials were also in attendance.

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, had in February constituted a committee to develop modalities for the establishment of state police.