Northern Governors Back State Police Initiative to Combat Escalating Insecurity -

By Usman A Harande

Gombe, Nigeria – In a decisive move to address the persistent security challenges plaguing Northern Nigeria, the Northern Governors Forum (NGF) has unequivocally endorsed the establishment of state-level police forces. The Forum is urging the National Assembly to expedite the necessary constitutional amendments to make this a reality, aiming to significantly bolster the nation’s security architecture.

This landmark decision was announced in a communiqué released following a crucial meeting of the Forum on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The statement was delivered by the NGF Chairman and Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.

Governor Malam Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, alongside his colleagues from across the 19 northern states, was instrumental in driving the deliberations. He emphasized the critical need for localized security strategies tailored to the unique challenges of each state, reiterating his staunch backing for the creation of state police.

The Forum resolved to intensify surveillance and intelligence sharing along inter-state borders. This strategic initiative aims to curtail the free movement of insurgents, bandits, and other criminal syndicates who exploit porous borders to perpetrate their nefarious activities.

While acknowledging the ongoing efforts of the Federal Government in tackling insecurity and addressing infrastructural deficits nationwide, the Northern Governors stressed the imperative of a multi-layered security approach. They also reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing collaboration with the Nigeria Governors Forum to foster a united front in the collective battle against insecurity.

The high-level meeting saw full attendance from all 19 Northern Governors, accompanied by the Chairmen of their respective State Councils of Traditional Rulers, signifying a unified regional stance on this critical issue. The push for decentralized policing underscores a growing consensus that empowering states with greater control over their security apparatus is vital for effectively tackling the complex and evolving security threats facing Nigeria.