A newly proposed policing reform in Nigeria is generating widespread debate after a committee set up by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, recommended that 60 percent of current police personnel be redeployed to state-controlled forces if state policing is approved.

The recommendation was presented to the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, chaired by Barau Jibrin. The proposal outlines a major structural shift in Nigeria’s security architecture, introducing a two-tier policing system aimed at addressing persistent security challenges.

Nigeria currently has an estimated 370,000 officers serving a population exceeding 200 million people, resulting in a ratio of about one officer to 600 citizens. This falls below the benchmark recommended by the United Nations, which advises a ratio of one officer to 450 citizens.

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Under the proposed framework, the existing Nigeria Police Force would be replaced by a Federal Police Service (FPS), while 37 State Police Services (SPS) would be established across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The Federal Police Service would handle national responsibilities such as terrorism, interstate crimes, and federal law enforcement. Meanwhile, State Police Services would focus on local crimes, including armed robbery, domestic violence, homicide, and community-based policing.

If implemented, approximately 222,000 officers would be transferred to state police formations, leaving 40 percent under federal control. The proposal also introduces a voluntary transfer program, allowing officers to move to their preferred state commands with incentives such as salary support, retraining, and pension continuity.

To ensure uniform standards, the committee recommended establishing a National Police Standards Board to oversee recruitment, training, accountability, and operational guidelines. The board would also monitor compliance and publish annual performance reports.

Community policing is central to the reform. Each state police unit would include dedicated departments and local forums involving traditional rulers, youth groups, religious leaders, and women’s organizations. Community liaison officers would also be deployed to strengthen grassroots engagement.

To address concerns about political misuse, the framework proposes safeguards such as independent state police commissions, legal penalties for interference, and judicial oversight by the Federal High Court. Additional accountability measures include body cameras, public performance dashboards, and legislative monitoring.

Funding for the system would come from a State Police Fund, supported by allocations from the Federation Account and contributions from state budgets. The rollout is planned over a 60-month period, beginning with constitutional amendments and ending with full operational consolidation.

However, the proposal has sparked mixed reactions among security experts. Mike Ejiofor, a former director of the Department of State Services, criticized the plan to redeploy federal officers to state commands. He argued that states should independently recruit and train their personnel rather than rely on transfers.

Ejiofor also raised concerns about limiting state police from handling terrorism and banditry, suggesting that they should be empowered to address all forms of crime. He further questioned the role of a centralized standards board, stating it could undermine the autonomy expected in a federal system.

As discussions continue, the proposal highlights a critical moment in Nigeria’s ongoing search for effective security solutions. While supporters see it as a pathway to localized and responsive policing, critics warn of potential implementation challenges and constitutional complexities.

The final decision now rests with lawmakers and stakeholders, whose deliberations will shape the future of policing and public safety across the country.