Nigeria Needs State Police, I Am Committed to It – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to the creation of state police, describing it as a necessary step in addressing Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

Speaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by a delegation of prominent Katsina indigenes led by Governor Dikko Radda, Tinubu said the federal government is reassessing all aspects of security to strengthen the fight against banditry and terrorism.

“I am reviewing all the aspects of security, I have to create state police. We are looking at that holistically,” the president declared.

Tinubu revealed that security agencies have been directed to intensify operations in Katsina State, which has recently witnessed a rise in bandit attacks. He also announced plans for the deployment of advanced drones, surveillance technology, and the training of newly recruited forest guards to boost security.

According to him, although Nigeria inherited porous borders and weaknesses that worsened insecurity, the government is determined to fix them.

“The security challenges that we are facing are surmountable… We must protect our children, our people, our livelihood, our places of worship, and our recreational spaces. They can’t intimidate us,” he said.

The president recalled that in February 2024, the federal government inaugurated a committee to draft a framework for state policing. The proposal has gained wide support, although 20 states had yet to submit reports as of March, according to Vice-President Kashim Shettima.

Tinubu also paid tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari, praising his legacy and assuring the delegation that it would be preserved.

Governor Radda and other Katsina leaders, including former Governor Aminu Masari and the Wazirin of Katsina, Ibrahim Ida, commended Tinubu for prioritising security and development in the state.

– VANGUARD