The Federal Government has invited Nigerians to help shape the proposed National Policing Bill, a major step toward creating state police across the country.
The National Policing Bill is expected to create a clear legal framework for state policing. It will also define recruitment, funding, training, oversight, and accountability for police services nationwide.
The Presidential Working Group, led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, announced the public consultation after a meeting at the State House in Abuja.
Gbajabiamila said, “A proposed State Police Service must demonstrate that it has credible arrangements for recruitment, vetting, training, pay, pensions, equipment, custody, complaints, discipline, data, firearms control, independent oversight and financial sustainability before it begins policing.”
The committee’s seven-week programme runs until September 14. A draft Executive Bill will be presented to President Bola Tinubu on September 3 before wider national consultations and submission to the National Assembly.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described state police as one of the administration’s biggest reforms. He said the proposed law would provide an operational guide and not allow federal control over state police.
Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi said the bill would protect lives and property while preventing state police from becoming a tool for political persecution. He added that states not yet ready would continue to rely on the Nigeria Police Force until they meet the required standards.
The Working Group encouraged citizens, civil society groups, academics, security experts, and government institutions to submit memoranda that will help shape the final legislation.
