ABUJA — President Bola Tinubu has proposed a constitutional amendment to establish state police services, with the Senate beginning a historic vote on the bill Wednesday.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio read Tinubu’s letter during Tuesday’s plenary, announcing receipt of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) State Police Bill, 2026. Akpabio called it “one of the most consequential constitutional votes in Nigeria’s democratic history” and urged full attendance from senators.
In the letter, Tinubu described the bill as “a critical component of our administration’s strategy to reorganise Nigeria’s security architecture to better protect our citizens.” He said it builds on work already done by both chambers and includes safeguards for creating a dual policing structure. Tinubu asked the Senate to act quickly to consider and pass the bill.
What the Bill Does
The amendment would alter the 1999 Constitution to allow states to establish and maintain their own police services alongside the Nigeria Police Force. It moves policing from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List.
Akpabio said state governments are ready to act promptly once the amendment is completed. He argued state police would improve grassroots intelligence gathering because “residents are often best positioned to identify suspicious activities and criminal elements within their communities.”
Legislative Path
The House of Representatives passed its version of the bill on June 10, 2026. The Senate passed an executive bill on state police for second reading on June 11. Tinubu’s new Constitution Alteration Bill builds on that proposal and provides the constitutional foundation required.
Copies of the Constitution Review Committee’s report were distributed to senators Tuesday. Akpabio noted the proposal is the result of nearly two years of consultations.
Tuesday’s emergency plenary adjourned after lawmakers mourned Rep. Yaya Tongo, who died Monday. Debate on the state police bill shifted to Wednesday.
Stakeholder Positions
State governors are seeking greater authority over security operations and guaranteed funding for state police, according to a Nigeria Governors’ Forum meeting of Attorneys-General last week.
Retired Brigadier General Peter Aro said state police should be viewed as “deliberate security reform rather than a political project,” but warned that “adequate safeguards must be put in place to prevent abuse.”
Next Steps
If the National Assembly passes the amendment, at least 24 of Nigeria’s 36 state Houses of Assembly must also approve it before it becomes law.
The Senate reconvened Wednesday to debate the bill.
