By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria have justified their persistent call for the creation of state police among other bold reforms to tackle the country’s growing security and socioeconomic challenges and concerns.
The Conference Chairman, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin made the clarification at the inaugural National Policy Dialogue on the Legislative Agenda of the House of Representatives.
He also at the event emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between the National and State Houses of Assembly to drive meaningful national impact.
According to him, a decentralized police force would allow states to implement localized security measures tailored to their unique needs, rather than relying solely on federally controlled forces.
Ogundoyin said, “Security remains a paramount concern for every Nigerian. It is not enough to merely condemn acts of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence each time they occur.
“As legislators, we must enact laws that support proactive, intelligence-driven security measures, strengthen the capacity of our security agencies, and promote community-based policing.
“A critical step towards addressing the multifarious security crises in the country would be the establishment of State Police, a position long advocated for by the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria.
“The safety of Nigerians cannot be effectively managed through a one-size-fits-all approach. State Police would enable swift and strategic responses to security threats at the community level.”
The Conference Chairman further called for a complete overhaul of the nation’s security architecture, including the recruitment and training of more personnel, provision of modern equipment, and adoption of technology-driven strategies to combat emerging threats.
Beyond security, Ogundoyin reiterated the need for economic reforms and policies that focus on empowering Nigerian youths, boosting entrepreneurship, and strengthening key industries.
He outlined youth empowerment (skill acquisition), support for MSMEs, agricultural expansion, advancement of digital economy, improved access to healthcare and education as given strategic areas for economic reforms
Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin commended the leadership of the House of Representatives for its progressive and inclusive approach, particularly in constituting the Committee on Nutrition and Food Security and inaugurating the National Legislative Network on Nutrition and Food Security.
The Conference of Speakers emphasized the importance of synergy between the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly in translating legislative agendas into tangible outcomes for Nigerians.
“As we reflect on the mid-term progress of the 10th House and chart a course for the future, I wish to reaffirm the commitment of the Conference of Speakers to deeper collaboration with the National Assembly.
“Together, we can build a legislative culture that is proactive, people-focused, and fundamentally rooted in service to our great nation.
“As leaders and lawmakers, we must rise above partisan interests and regional differences to serve the greater good. We must act not just as representatives of our constituencies, but as true patriots committed to the unity, security, and prosperity of our beloved country.” Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin said.
