Nigeria’s deepening insecurity crisis has reignited national discussions on policing reform, with growing pressure to decentralize the country’s security system. Among the strongest voices pushing for change is Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, who has publicly criticized the limitations of Nigeria’s centralized security architecture. He argues that the current system is no longer capable of addressing the complex and localized threats many states are facing.
Governor Lawal’s frustration stems from a structural flaw: state governors are constitutionally designated as chief security officers but are stripped of any real power to act in that capacity. They cannot directly deploy security forces, even in emergencies. This disconnect has led to dangerous delays and ineffective crisis responses, as federal forces often arrive too late or lack the local knowledge needed to act decisively.
Zamfara State continues to suffer devastating consequences under this system. The region has become a hotspot for armed banditry, mass kidnappings, and widespread violence in rural communities. Many residents live in constant fear, while overstretched security forces struggle to contain the chaos. For Governor Lawal, these persistent threats underscore the need for a state-managed security force—one that understands the terrain, local networks, and the socio-political nuances that a federal system consistently overlooks.
The concept of state police has long been debated in Nigeria, but the urgency for reform has intensified as the country’s security challenges grow. Advocates believe that allowing states to establish and manage their own police forces would improve accountability, responsiveness, and operational effectiveness. With governors empowered to coordinate local strategies and personnel, responses to crime and violence could be faster, more targeted, and more successful.
Despite the growing momentum, the proposal is not without opposition. Critics fear that state police could be politicized, misused by governors to target rivals, or clash with federal agencies over jurisdiction. However, these concerns are increasingly weighed against the stark reality of Nigeria’s worsening security environment. As violent crimes escalate and federal capabilities remain overstretched, the argument for reform becomes harder to ignore.
Governor Lawal’s advocacy sends a powerful message to national leaders: the current security model is unsustainable. With public trust eroding and lives at risk, the push for state police is no longer just a political proposal—it’s emerging as a necessary step toward restoring safety and rebuilding confidence in Nigeria’s ability to protect its citizens.