President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday urged the Senate to initiate the process of amending the 1999 Constitution to accommodate the creation of state police as part of measures to tackle the nation’s growing security challenges.

The President made the call while hosting senators to an interfaith Iftar at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, stressing the need for urgent constitutional reforms to strengthen internal security and safeguard citizens across the country.

According to him, the move has become imperative in view of the persistent threats posed by terrorism, banditry and insurgency.

“Nigeria is facing enormous security challenges. We are confronted with terrorism, banditry and insurgency, and we must respond decisively,” he said.

Tinubu appealed to lawmakers to begin consultations and work out modalities for constitutional amendment that would pave the way for the establishment of state police.

“What I ask of you tonight is to start thinking about how best to amend the Constitution to incorporate state police. This is necessary for us to better secure our country, reclaim our forests from criminal elements and free our children from fear,” he stated.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to national unity, welfare and prosperity, noting that collective resolve and cooperation between the executive and legislature were critical to achieving sustainable security and development.

It would be recalled that in 2024, the 36 state governors endorsed the creation of state police after submitting their position to the National Economic Council (NEC), signaling broad subnational support for the initiative.

The renewed push for constitutional amendment is expected to reignite debate over the decentralisation of policing powers in Nigeria.