State Police will strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, says Gov. Alia

Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has lauded the House of Representatives for passing the bill seeking to establish state police across the country, describing the development as a bold and commendable step toward strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

The governor made his position known on Friday during his June 12 Democracy Day broadcast to the people of Benue State in Makurdi, where he emphasized the urgent need for a more localized and responsive policing system capable of addressing the unique security challenges facing various states and communities across the federation.

Governor Alia said the passage of the bill reflects the growing recognition that security challenges differ from one region to another and require solutions that are closer to the people and more attuned to local realities.

According to him, the move by lawmakers demonstrates courage, foresight, and a strong commitment to the protection of lives and property.

“The lawmakers deserve appreciation for demonstrating courage, foresight, and commitment to the protection of lives and property,” the governor stated.

He urged Nigerians to embrace the initiative with an open mind, noting that the proposed state police structure should be viewed as a necessary reform aimed at enhancing public safety and deepening grassroots security across the country.

“I urge Nigerians to view this development in good faith and as a necessary reform aimed at enhancing public safety and deepening grassroots security,” he said.

Governor Alia further explained that with appropriate safeguards, accountability mechanisms, and constitutional checks in place, state police would effectively complement existing federal security agencies, improve intelligence gathering, and ensure quicker responses to security threats.

According to him, the reform has the potential to transform the nation’s security landscape by creating a more efficient and proactive system capable of responding rapidly to emerging threats at the community level.

“With appropriate safeguards, accountability mechanisms, and constitutional checks, state police can complement existing security agencies, improve intelligence gathering, and promote quicker responses to threats.

“This is a significant milestone in our collective quest for a safer and more secure Nigeria,” he added.

The governor also highlighted efforts made by his administration to improve security in Benue State despite persistent security challenges confronting parts of the state.

He disclosed that his government has strengthened collaboration with security agencies and invested heavily in security infrastructure through the provision of more than 150 operational vehicles and 600 motorcycles to support security operations.

Governor Alia further pointed to the establishment of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards and the Anyam Nyor Joint Task Force as part of measures introduced by his administration to combat insecurity and protect communities.

He expressed confidence that the eventual establishment of state police would further consolidate ongoing security gains, enhance peace in affected areas, and guarantee the safety of lives and property across the state.

The governor maintained that empowering states with policing responsibilities would bring security closer to the people, improve community participation in intelligence gathering, and foster a safer environment for economic growth and social development.

He therefore called on all stakeholders to support the ongoing efforts toward constitutional and institutional reforms that would make state policing a reality, stressing that the security and well-being of Nigerians must remain a top national priority.

Governor Alia concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustaining measures aimed at protecting residents of Benue State and ensuring lasting peace throughout the state.