Chairman of the Nigeria Police Committee on the Establishment of State Police, Professor Olu Ogunsakin, has commended the Senate for passing the State Police Bill, describing the move as a significant step toward strengthening security and addressing Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

Ogunsakin explained that the bill must still be ratified by the 36 State Houses of Assembly before being transmitted to the President for assent.

According to him, “It is only after these constitutional processes have been completed that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Committee will fully commence its implementation activities.”

He disclosed that the IGP is currently engaging officers across the country to sensitise them to the concept of state policing and the safeguards being developed to prevent abuse of the system once established.

“The IGP has already visited Jigawa and several other police commands to interact with officers on the proposed state police structure. He will continue touring commands nationwide to obtain feedback and address concerns,” he said.

Ogunsakin added that officers would be given questionnaires and informational flyers containing frequently asked questions to enable the committee to gather opinions, suggestions and concerns from personnel.

He further revealed that the IGP has assured officers that the establishment of state police would not result in job losses, stalled promotions or reduced salaries.

“Any officer who wishes to return to his or her state of origin after the creation of state police will be free to do so without any adverse effect on remuneration or career progression,” he said.

Ogunsakin also sought to allay public fears over the proposed policing model, stressing that security remains a critical component of governance and that adequate safeguards would be put in place to ensure professionalism, accountability and effective service delivery.