NEC: Governors Back Establishment of State Police

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), led by Nyesom Wike, failed to submit its recommendations on the establishment of state police, causing another delay in reaching a resolution on the matter....CONTINUE READING>>>

At the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting on Thursday, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, 36 states presented their recommendations, with the majority of governors endorsing the creation of state police. The Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, confirmed the widespread support during a press briefing.

Governor Sani disclosed that a definitive stance on state police would be adopted in the next NEC meeting, scheduled for January 2025. He noted that discussions had been postponed to allow the NEC Secretariat to prepare a comprehensive report, which would then be deliberated upon.

This delay follows a previous NEC meeting in November, where Kwara, Kebbi, and Adamawa states had yet to submit their positions on state police.

During the briefing, Governor Sani emphasized the pressing need for state police to address Nigeria’s unique security challenges. He highlighted the widespread agreement among states, attributing it to the growing insecurity, ungoverned spaces, and a significant shortage of security personnel.

“Virtually every state has its peculiar security challenges, and the creation of state police is seen as a necessary step to address these issues. The lack of sufficient personnel in existing security agencies further underscores the need for state police,” he stated.

The council also resolved to engage further with stakeholders after receiving the NEC Secretariat’s report in January, with hopes of advancing discussions on this critical security reform.

More updates to follow.