President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has asked the House of Representatives to amend the 1999 Constitution to pave the way for the establishment of state police services, describing the proposal as a critical step towards reorganising Nigeria’s security architecture to tackle the country’s growing security challenges.

In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, the president transmitted the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026, for legislative consideration.

Tinubu said the proposed amendment seeks to create a constitutional pathway for the establishment of state police services, noting that it builds on the work already undertaken by the House of Representatives on the issue.

According to him, the bill also incorporates additional safeguards to ensure that the creation of a dual policing structure is implemented “quickly and effectively” for the benefit of Nigerians.

“The proposed legislation is a critical component of our administration’s strategy to reorganize Nigeria’s security architecture to better protect our citizens,” the president said.

He expressed confidence that the House would expedite consideration and passage of the bill.

The renewed push comes amid sustained calls by governors, security experts and other stakeholders for the creation of state police as a means of tackling rising insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping and communal violence across the country.

If passed by the National Assembly and approved by the required number of state Houses of Assembly, the amendment will provide the constitutional basis for states to establish and operate their own police services alongside the Nigeria Police Force.