State Police Creation ‘Non-Negotiable’, Says Abiodun

Southern Governors’ Forum Chairman and Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has reiterated that establishing state police is “non-negotiable,” insisting it remains a critical solution to Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

Abiodun made the declaration on Monday during his welcome address at the Southern Governors’ Forum meeting held at his Iperu-Remo residence in Ogun State. He emphasised the unified stance of Southern governors in confronting regional insecurity and economic strains.

The governor stressed that effective security begins at the grassroots, and community policing is essential in detecting early threats. He confirmed that all Southern governors have already presented their individual submissions backing the creation of state police.

Citing recent school abductions, attacks on worship centres, and violence in rural areas, Abiodun warned that no region is shielded from organised crime or violent extremism. A policing system rooted in local communities, he argued, would improve intelligence gathering, boost early-warning structures, and enhance overall safety.

Abiodun proposed a coordinated regional security architecture centred on intelligence-sharing, border management, safe-school initiatives, and surveillance of transport corridors. He also called for a Regional Rapid Response Fund to strengthen emergency operations, specialised training, forensic work, and rescue efforts.

At the state level, he pledged tighter documentation of foreign nationals, removal of illegal settlements, regulation of scavenger activities, and action against unlawful mining and criminal forest hideouts. Integrating community policing with regional surveillance, he noted, would significantly cut response times.

He further highlighted the importance of unified regional development plans, including transportation links connecting state capitals, industrial zones, ports, airports, agricultural belts, and mineral-rich areas. Abiodun recommended creating a Southern Centre for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship to equip youths in tech, agritech, manufacturing, and creative industries.

Describing agriculture as a central economic driver, he advocated for mechanised farming, advanced fishing systems, and stronger rural-agricultural policies. He said the South’s natural resources—such as oil, gas, bitumen, limestone, granite, marble, and precious stones—could fuel industrial growth if fully tapped.

Abiodun praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s governance style, describing it as transformative. He specifically commended the President’s “direct and swift” role in coordinating the recent rescue of abducted schoolchildren, saying it demonstrates a security strategy that is increasingly intelligence-led.

“President Tinubu’s swift action demonstrates that the safety of our children remains a top national priority and reassures citizens of the government’s commitment to stability,” Abiodun said.

He urged Southern leaders and stakeholders to work together in building a more secure, united, and prosperous region.

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