The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has stated that any plan to establish state police in the country must be firmly grounded in the Constitution and reflect the core principles of Nigeria’s federal structure, while also safeguarding citizens’ rights.
The position was made known in Abuja following a meeting of the forum, through a communiqué issued by its Chairman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, and presented by Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State.
According to the governors, discussions are ongoing with Attorneys-General from all 36 states to examine the constitutional adjustments and legal frameworks needed to support the creation of state policing structures.
The forum disclosed that a joint review process is underway to ensure that any proposed reforms are consistent with federalism and do not undermine the fundamental rights of citizens.
It noted that the consultations are expected to help shape a unified position for states ahead of further legislative considerations.
On social development issues, the governors reiterated their commitment to tackling malnutrition and improving nutrition outcomes across the country.
They reviewed updates from the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning on the National Nutrition 774 (N-774) programme and expressed support for continued reforms aimed at strengthening nutrition governance.
The forum also encouraged sustained engagement with relevant stakeholders to support the passage and effective implementation of the National Nutrition Bill.
In addition, the governors reaffirmed their focus on improving food security, strengthening agricultural value chains, and expanding access to reliable electricity across the states.
They were briefed by the World Bank Country Office on the proposed Country Partnership Framework for Nigeria covering 2026 to 2032, as well as the Nigeria Sustainable Agricultural Value Chains for Growth (AGROW) initiative.
The AGROW programme, a results-driven intervention, is designed to boost agricultural productivity, improve value chains, attract private sector participation, enhance food security, and support early childhood development outcomes.
The governors expressed support for continued collaboration with development partners and the Federal Government to ensure successful implementation of the programmes across participating states.
They also approved state-level interventions across key sectors, including health, education, water and sanitation, social protection, and family support systems, emphasizing the need for stronger coordination to improve delivery outcomes.
On energy reforms, the forum received a presentation on the National Solar Super-Grid initiative, aimed at expanding electricity access through decentralised solar power integrated with the national transmission network.
The governors noted that the project holds significant potential to boost industrial growth, strengthen energy security, and improve electricity supply across the country.
They reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing power sector reforms and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure broader access to affordable and reliable electricity nationwide.
The meeting ended with a renewed pledge by state leaders to deepen reforms that support economic growth, social development, and improved service delivery across Nigeria.