By Aaron Ossai
Amidst lingering security challenges in Nigeria, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas has said that State Police remains one of the most viable options to tackle security issues headlong.
He therefore advocated for a decisive legislative action toward establishing a multi-level policing system in Nigeria, describing it as a necessary step to address the country’s security challenges.
Abbas, who spoke on Wednesday at the public hearing on the Private Intelligence and Investigation Council Bill, 2024, organized by the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence, said security reforms have become a national priority and must now move from “theory to decisive action.”
The Speaker, who was represented by the member representing Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency, Hon Muktar Shagaya, said creating state police through constitutional amendment remains a viable option deserving serious national consideration.
“The time has come for the debate on multi-level policing to move from theory to decisive legislative action. Creating state police through constitutional amendment remains a viable option that deserves serious consideration. However, beyond constitutional reform, we must also strengthen community policing to make it more effective and responsive to local realities”, he stated.
Speaking further, Hon. Abbas said the House remains committed to reforms that will enhance public safety and strengthen Nigeria’s overall security architecture.
According to him, the National Assembly’s focus on security-related legislation, including the proposed Private Intelligence and Investigation Council Bill, underscores its determination to provide a legal framework that promotes accountability, professionalism, and collaboration among both public and private security actors.
The Speaker explained that the Private Intelligence and Investigation Council Bill seeks to create a regulatory framework for private intelligence and investigation services, ensuring they operate ethically, responsibly, and in compliance with professional standards.
He said the bill aims to implement uniform practices that will enhance service quality, promote continuous training and capacity development, and encourage stronger cooperation between private and public security institutions.
He reaffirmed that the 10th House of Representatives remains committed to transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in all legislative engagements.
On his part, the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Hon. Ahmad Satomi, said the proposed legislation to establish a Private Intelligence and Investigation Council will mark a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture through the regulation and professionalization of private intelligence operations.
Satomi described the bill as a forward-looking initiative that seeks to ensure accountability, professionalism, and ethical conduct within the country’s growing private intelligence and investigation industry.
