Governors back Tinubu’s security drive, renew calls for State Police

Stanley Ihedigbo

Amid growing security concerns nationwide, governors have aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed offensive against criminality, reviving the long-standing debate over state police as a viable solution to Nigeria’s security challenges.

The position was reinforced on Sunday at the President’s Lagos residence during a high-level Eid al-Fitr gathering with Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors.

The President emphasized that tackling insecurity has become the next critical phase in Nigeria’s development agenda.

According to the Special Adviser to the President ( Information & Strategy), Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu stressed that insecurity remains a direct threat to progress, prosperity, and social stability, noting that his administration is actively strengthening international partnerships to enhance Nigeria’s security capabilities.

“We will not allow insecurity to overshadow our efforts at helping the vulnerable,” the President said. “The next phase of our struggle is the challenge of insecurity, and we must confront it collectively.”

The President revealed that his recent three-day State Visit to the United Kingdom included extensive discussions on security cooperation, particularly in the area of modern equipment and intelligence support.

During the visit, Tinubu was hosted by King Charles III and held talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, engagements he described as pivotal to strengthening bilateral ties.

He further disclosed that he had held a “lengthy discussion” with French President Emmanuel Macron, who has expressed willingness to collaborate with Nigeria on security equipment and strategic support.

“I am making frantic efforts to contact other nations,” Tinubu added, signaling a broader diplomatic push to build a global coalition against insecurity in Nigeria.
Economic Pressures and Social Protection

Beyond security, the President warned that the ongoing crisis in the Middle East could exacerbate inflationary pressures in Nigeria, particularly affecting energy and transportation costs.

He urged state governors to take proactive steps in cushioning the economic impact on citizens, especially the most vulnerable, noting that organized labour and other groups are likely to demand increased government support.

“We should care more for the vulnerable,” Tinubu said, highlighting the need for responsive policies amid global economic uncertainties.

The President called on governors to remain steadfast in translating their development visions into actionable policies that directly improve citizens’ livelihoods, while also intensifying collaboration with federal authorities to combat criminality.

He described insecurity as a form of “tyranny” that must be decisively confronted through unity, innovation, and sustained political will.

Tinubu also commended Vice President Shettima for his recent condolence visit to Borno State, assuring residents of enhanced protection through the deployment of modern security technologies.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, praised the President’s leadership and the impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda across states.

He described Tinubu’s UK visit as historic, the first of its kind in 37 years and a major step toward deepening Nigeria’s international relationships and attracting investment.

AbdulRazaq also highlighted ongoing discussions on the establishment of state police, revealing that the Governors’ Forum is working with security agencies under the guidance of the National Security Adviser to develop a legislative framework.

“The NGF will take the document to the National Assembly to see how we can have a legislative framework for state police,” he said.

The meeting brought together governors from across the federation, including leaders from Imo, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Enugu, Gombe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Kogi, Lagos, Nasarawa, Plateau, Rivers, Taraba, Yobe, and Ondo States.

The Deputy Governor of Borno State also attended, reflecting the wide national consensus on the urgency of addressing insecurity.

As Nigeria grapples with both security and economic challenges, Tinubu’s renewed diplomatic outreach and domestic coordination signal a critical phase in the administration’s efforts to stabilize the country.

With increasing global partnerships and growing support from state governments, the coming months may prove decisive in determining whether Nigeria can successfully turn the tide against insecurity while safeguarding the welfare of its citizens.