In a decisive move to combat escalating national insecurity, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has thrown his administration's weight behind the contentious issue of state policing, formally petitioning the National Assembly to initiate a comprehensive review of existing legislation. Declaring the current situation a "national emergency" on Wednesday, the President outlined a sweeping new security doctrine that mandates the devolution of police powers, dramatically increases boots-on-the-ground, and issues stark warnings to institutions in high-risk zones.
The Decentralization Mandate: Paving the Way for State Police
At the heart of the new strategy is a call for a fundamental restructuring of Nigeria's security architecture. President Tinubu specifically urged lawmakers to "begin reviewing our laws to allow states that require state police to establish them." This directive signals a potential paradigm shift away from the centralized federal police model.
Furthermore, the administration pledged unequivocal support for state governments that have already taken the initiative to form localized security outfits designed to protect their communities from persistent terrorist and bandit threats.
Operational Surge: New Personnel and Strategic Deployments
Beyond the legislative appeal, the President announced a significant ramp-up of personnel and deployment, framing it as a necessary response to the security crisis:
- Massive Recruitment Drive: The Nigerian Police Force is authorized to recruit an additional 20,000 officers, elevating the total new intake to 50,000 personnel. To facilitate this unprecedented mobilization, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps are to be repurposed as temporary training facilities.
- The Deployment of Forest Guards: The Department of State Services (DSS) has been directed to deploy specially trained forest guards with the immediate objective of flushing out bandits and insurgents utilizing Nigeria's vast forest reserves as hideouts.
- VIP Duty Withdrawal: Officers previously assigned to non-essential protection duties are to undergo an accelerated crash training program before their essential redeployment to critical security theatres.
- Strategic Military Reinforcement: The Armed Forces are set for reinforcement in troubled regions to bolster counter-insurgency efforts.
Vigilance Advised: Warnings to Educational and Religious Institutions
The President also issued specific security advisories to educational and religious institutions, urging heightened vigilance and necessary precautions:
States were advised to "rethink establishing boarding schools in remote areas without adequate security," emphasizing that student safety must be paramount.
Religious institutions (Mosques and Churches) in vulnerable locations were strongly encouraged to "constantly seek police and other security protection" when convening for prayers.
A Unified National Call to Action
Concluding his declaration, President Tinubu stressed the need for national solidarity in the face of the crisis, stating, "The times require all hands on deck. As Nigerians, we should all get involved in securing our nation." The comprehensive plan underscores the government's recognition of the urgency and gravity of the security challenges facing the country.