Nigeria Senate Convenes Emergency Session to Pass State Police Bill

The Nigerian Senate convened an emergency plenary session on June 23, 2026, to advance the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) State Police Bill, 2026. Bola Tinubu transmitted an executive version of the bill to the Senate on June 15, proposing a dual policing structure that allows state governments to operate their own forces alongside federal authorities to improve local intelligence and combat banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio recalled lawmakers from a three-week recess and directed the Senate Committee on Constitution Review to submit its report by June 24 for a final vote. Because the bill is a constitutional amendment, it requires a two-thirds majority in both the Senate and the House of Representatives—where 289 lawmakers have already supported the measure—followed by ratification from at least 24 of the 36 state Houses of Assembly.

Proponents argue the reform is essential for grassroots security, while critics express concern that governors might use state police for political purposes. To mitigate these risks, the legislation includes safeguards such as State Police Service Commissions and federal oversight. Parallel security efforts continue at the regional level, including the recent inauguration of 2,176 forest guards by the Bauchi State Government and the graduation of 111 elite special forces operators by the Nigerian Air Force.