FG unveils National Policing Bill to enable state police across Nigeria
On August 3, 2026, the Federal Government unveiled a proposed National Policing Bill that would allow states to establish their own police services, provided they meet strict standards for recruitment, training, funding, oversight and details such as custody, complaints, discipline and firearms control. The announcement came at a meeting chaired by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, attended by the Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi, Inspector General of Police Tunji Disu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun (representing the Nigeria Governors' Forum), the Nigerian Bar Association's Afam Osigwe and other security officials.
The bill aims to create credible, effective and accountable policing nationwide while guarding against political abuse. States not yet ready would continue to rely on the federal police until they meet the criteria. The reform could reshape local security, affect response times and shift funding responsibilities from Abuja to state capitals.
Citizens should monitor whether their state moves to create a police force, assess how prepared local governments are to meet the proposed standards, and consider what the change means for personal safety, community relations and potential costs. How prepared is your state to meet the proposed standards for a state police force, and what impact might that have on your neighbourhood?