Hyacinth Alia hails the National Assembly’s approval of the constitutional amendment, describing state policing as a timely solution to Nigeria’s security challenges

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has applauded the National Assembly for passing the State Police Bill, describing the proposed constitutional amendment as a landmark reform that could significantly strengthen Nigeria’s security framework and improve the protection of lives and property.

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The governor’s position was conveyed in a statement issued in Makurdi on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, following the Senate’s approval of the legislation seeking to establish state police across the federation.

Alia said the passage of the bill marked a decisive moment in the country’s efforts to address persistent security challenges through a more decentralised and responsive policing system.

According to the governor, the legislation seeks to create a state policing structure that would operate alongside the existing federal police architecture, enabling state governments to play a more direct role in maintaining security within their jurisdictions.

“The passage of the bill is a courageous and timely step,” Alia said, reiterating his longstanding support for state policing as a critical component of broader security sector reforms.

The governor noted that insecurity has remained one of Nigeria’s most pressing national concerns, requiring innovative approaches capable of addressing threats at the grassroots level.

“The House of Representatives had passed the law a few weeks ago, and the concurrence by the Senate a few days ago has confirmed the genuine intentions of National Assembly members to address the problem of insecurity in the country,” he stated.

Alia argued that a state police structure would be better positioned to understand local realities and respond swiftly to emerging threats because of its familiarity with communities, terrain and cultural dynamics.

He said closer engagement between law enforcement agencies and local populations would improve intelligence gathering, crime prevention and emergency response efforts.

The governor’s endorsement comes as support continues to build for the State Police Bill among political leaders, security experts and stakeholders who believe the current centralised policing system faces significant challenges in effectively securing a country as large and diverse as Nigeria.

Beyond praising the National Assembly, Alia also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting reforms aimed at restructuring the country’s security architecture.

The governor described the President’s backing of the initiative as evidence of visionary leadership and a commitment to addressing a long-standing national issue.

He noted that discussions around state police have featured prominently in national conversations for years, with advocates insisting that decentralisation would improve operational efficiency and strengthen community security.

Alia further assured residents that the Benue State Government would continue to prioritise investments in security while supporting policies designed to promote peace and stability.

He pledged that his administration would remain committed to initiatives aimed at safeguarding lives, protecting communities and creating an environment conducive to economic growth and development.

The Senate passed the State Police Bill on Wednesday after a clause-by-clause consideration during plenary, with more than two-thirds of lawmakers voting in support of the proposal.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the passage of the legislation following the presentation of a report by the Senate Committee on the Review of the Constitution, chaired by Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin.

Under the proposed amendment, state governments would be empowered to establish and maintain police services within their territories, while the Nigeria Police Force would retain responsibility for national security matters, including terrorism, border protection and other federal offences.

The bill represents one of the most significant constitutional reforms currently under consideration and forms part of wider efforts to address escalating security concerns across the country.

Before it can become law, however, the amendment must secure approval from at least 24 state Houses of Assembly. It will then be transmitted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assent.

For Benue State, which has faced recurring security challenges in recent years, Alia’s endorsement reflects the belief among many stakeholders that state policing could become a powerful tool in strengthening local security, improving public safety and enhancing the effectiveness of law enforcement operations.

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The governor’s support adds momentum to the growing national debate as the proposed reform advances to the next stage of the constitutional amendment process.