Northern Youth Assembly Backs State Police Initiative
By Our Correspondent
The Northern Youth Assembly (NYA) has applauded the National Assembly for the historic passage of the constitutional amendment bill seeking the establishment of State Police across the Federal Republic of Nigeria, describing the development as a landmark step toward strengthening the nation’s security architecture.
In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Dr. Abdulhafiz Garba, the Assembly noted that the overwhelming endorsement of the bill by lawmakers reflects a growing national consensus on the urgent need for decentralized and community-oriented policing as a practical response to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
According to the Assembly, the passage of the State Police Bill represents one of the most significant security reforms since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.
“The overwhelming support for the bill demonstrates a clear understanding among lawmakers that contemporary security threats require innovative, responsive, and locally driven solutions. This historic decision offers renewed hope for communities across Nigeria, particularly in the North, where insecurity has significantly impacted lives, livelihoods, and economic development,” the statement said.
The Assembly observed that for many years, Northern Nigeria has grappled with security challenges including banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, cattle rustling, communal conflicts, and other criminal activities that have undermined social stability and economic growth.
While commending the sacrifices and dedication of officers of the Nigeria Police Force, the NYA noted that the centralized policing structure has faced enormous challenges in addressing the security demands of Nigeria’s vast population and diverse geographical landscape.
The group expressed confidence that State Police would complement existing federal security institutions by bringing law enforcement closer to local communities and enhancing operational efficiency.
Highlighting the benefits of the reform to Northern Nigeria, the Assembly stated that State Police would significantly improve intelligence gathering through the recruitment of personnel familiar with local languages, cultures, terrains, and community dynamics.
It further emphasized that decentralized policing would facilitate quicker responses to emergencies and emerging security threats, thereby enhancing the protection of lives and property.
The NYA also noted that the establishment of State Police would create employment opportunities for thousands of young people, helping to reduce unemployment while promoting community participation in safeguarding public safety.
According to the Assembly, improved security would attract investments, boost agricultural productivity, stimulate economic activities, and facilitate the free movement of people and goods across the region.
Drawing comparisons with advanced democracies such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Germany, the Assembly stated that decentralized policing systems have proven effective in improving security outcomes while preserving national unity and accountability.
The Northern Youth Assembly maintained that the passage of the State Police Bill is not merely a legislative achievement but a strategic milestone toward building a safer, more secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies and reforms that promote peace, security, youth empowerment, sustainable development, and national unity.
