Nigerian Senate Approves Bill for State Police to Combat Insecurity

WHO:

ABC News - The Nigerian Senate voted in favor of a bill.

AP News - President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is championing the legislation.

WHAT:

ABC News - The bill allows for the creation of state police in Nigeria.

AP News - The proposed constitutional change will decentralize the police force, allowing each of the 36 states to create a police force that meets a minimum national requirement.

AP News - The federal police will retain control of counterterrorism, border patrol, organized crime, and other national security issues.

AP News - At least 80 school children are still in captivity after being abducted by militants.

WHERE:

ABC News - The event took place in Nigeria.

AP News - The legislation affects all 36 states in Nigeria.

WHEN:

ABC News - The Senate voted on the bill on Wednesday.

AP News - The bill requires approval from two-thirds of the state assemblies since it includes a constitutional change.

WHY:

AP News - The bill is seen as a solution to the escalating insecurity crisis in Nigeria, which has been exacerbated by a lack of police presence in rural areas.

AP News - Analysts note that militant groups have operated without challenge due to insufficient policing.

HOW:

AP News - The state police forces will operate alongside the federal police as part of the new structure.

(UPDATED June 25, 2026 06:22 UTC)

The Nigerian Senate has voted in favor of a bill that allows for the creation of state police forces across the country, a move championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This proposed constitutional change aims to decentralize the police, enabling each of Nigeria's 36 states to establish their own police forces while the federal police will continue to handle counterterrorism and national security issues. The legislation is seen as a response to the growing insecurity crisis, particularly in rural areas, where militant groups have thrived due to a lack of adequate policing.