Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commended the Senate for passing the constitutional amendment bill that seeks to establish state police across Nigeria, describing the development as a bold and necessary step toward strengthening security and improving community safety nationwide.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the passage of the bill marks a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to reform its security architecture and address growing concerns about effective policing at the grassroots level. According to him, the move reflects years of national dialogue on the need for a security framework that is more responsive to local realities and emerging challenges.
The governor also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to advancing the state police initiative, noting that the reform is a testament to the President’s long-standing belief in decentralizing security management. Sanwo-Olu recalled that Tinubu had consistently championed the idea since his tenure as Governor of Lagos State, arguing that communities are best protected when local authorities have a greater role in maintaining security.
He stated that the President’s determination and vision helped sustain the conversation over the years and ultimately paved the way for the current progress toward constitutional reform.
Speaking on the implications for Lagos, Sanwo-Olu noted that the state’s security needs are unique, dynamic, and constantly evolving due to its status as Nigeria’s commercial hub. He emphasized that local policing would provide an opportunity to develop security strategies tailored to the specific needs of communities, neighborhoods, and residents.
While acknowledging that additional legislative and administrative processes remain before full implementation, the governor described the Senate’s action as a major step forward in the quest for a safer and more secure Nigeria.
He expressed optimism that the reform would strengthen public safety, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance the capacity of authorities to respond effectively to security challenges across the country.
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