A good governance advocacy group, the Hope Alive Initiative (HAI), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges and for mobilising state governors toward a framework for the establishment of state police.
In a statement issued Wednesday in Abuja by its Director of Press and Communications, Ernest Omoarelojie, the group said sustainable peace and stability require a multi-layered security approach that empowers local communities while reinforcing national coordination.
HAI argued that the creation of state police would deepen citizen participation in security governance and align with Nigeria’s federal structure. It noted that several states already operate regional security outfits and vigilante groups, stressing that formal legislative backing is essential to ensure their effectiveness and integration into the national security architecture.
According to the group, decentralised policing would enhance operational efficiency by enabling officers to better understand local terrain, culture and emerging threats, thereby improving response times and strengthening public trust in efforts to combat crime and insurgency.
The organisation also lauded the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) for submitting a proposed state police framework to the Office of the National Security Adviser, while urging governors to intensify support for existing security structures to tackle ongoing threats.
HAI further welcomed recent security cooperation agreements between Nigeria and international partners, including the United States, United Kingdom and France, noting that such partnerships would enhance training, intelligence sharing and technological capacity in addressing terrorism, banditry and organised crime.
Describing security as the bedrock of national development, the group said combining grassroots policing initiatives with global alliances would help create a safer environment, attract investment and restore public confidence.
HAI also commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for sustaining operations against terrorists and bandits nationwide, urging troops to remain resolute in protecting communities from criminal elements.
The group expressed confidence that the federal government would continue to equip and support the military to ensure sustained operational success against threats to national security.
It further highlighted the significance of President Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom, where he was hosted by King Charles III, describing the engagement as a reflection of Nigeria’s growing global influence.
HAI added that the President’s interaction with Nigerian diaspora leaders during the visit underscored the critical role of overseas Nigerians in national development, particularly in fostering investment and knowledge transfer.
The organisation called on government institutions, civil society groups and citizens to support ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening security and advancing national development.
