The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has submitted its proposal on the establishment of state police to the National Security Adviser, with plans for the document to be transmitted to the National Assembly for legislative consideration.

Chairman of the forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed this on Sunday in Lagos during a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at his Ikoyi residence.

AbdulRazaq said discussions on the proposed state policing framework were ongoing among key security stakeholders under the coordination of the National Security Adviser, adding that the NGF had formally contributed its position to the process.

He noted that the proposal would now be forwarded to the National Assembly to facilitate the development of a legal framework for state policing in Nigeria.

The governor reaffirmed the commitment of state governors to strengthening collaboration with security agencies to combat terrorism, improve infrastructure, and enhance the welfare of citizens.

He emphasised the need for a united front in addressing the country’s security challenges, stressing that collective efforts remain crucial to ending persistent threats across various regions.

AbdulRazaq also congratulated President Tinubu on his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as a bold diplomatic engagement with significant benefits for Nigeria.

According to him, the visit, the first of its kind in decades, reflects renewed leadership and is expected to deepen bilateral relations between both countries.

He expressed optimism that agreements reached during the visit would strengthen cooperation and deliver economic benefits to Nigerians.

The NGF chairman further commended the President’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, noting that it has fostered a sense of inclusion and national participation in governance.

He urged Nigerians, particularly leaders, to embrace values such as unity, selflessness, and mutual understanding as essential ingredients for national development and security.

AbdulRazaq revealed that about 25 governors attended the meeting, describing the turnout as a demonstration of support for the President’s leadership.

The meeting was also attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and other senior government officials.

The push for state police has generated widespread debate across the country, with supporters arguing that it would improve community-based policing and enhance security responsiveness.

However, critics have raised concerns about the potential for political misuse of state-controlled police structures by subnational authorities.

In a related development, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, had earlier constituted a committee to develop modalities for the possible establishment of state police.

The outcome of the ongoing legislative process is expected to shape the future of policing and internal security architecture in Nigeria.