Nigerian state governors have reiterated their commitment to establishing state police, emphasizing that the initiative must be constitutionally sound and aligned with federalism. They also reaffirmed support for electricity sector reforms, including a National Solar Super-Grid Initiative aimed at expanding power access across the country.
Governors Stress Constitutional Alignment for State Police
The decisions were reached at the 2nd meeting of the Nigerian State Governors’ Forum held on Wednesday, June 18, 2026. According to a communiqué issued after the meeting, governors held dedicated consultations with Attorneys-General to review proposed constitutional amendments and frameworks ahead of a final collective decision.
The forum emphasized that any state police structure must be legally grounded and respect citizens' rights. The communiqué stated, "Governors emphasised the need for the State Police to be constitutionally sound and aligned with federalism and citizens’ rights." It added that outcomes from ongoing consultations with Attorneys-General would strengthen the states' collective position on the matter.
Electricity Reforms: Solar Super-Grid Initiative Highlighted
Governors reiterated their commitment to power sector reforms and received a briefing on the National Solar Super-Grid Initiative, a proposal to expand electricity access through large-scale decentralized solar generation integrated with a national high-voltage transmission network. The forum noted the initiative's potential to support industrialization, improve energy security, and accelerate economic growth across Nigeria.
World Bank Partnership and Nutrition Agenda
Governors also received a briefing from the World Bank Country Office on the proposed Country Partnership Framework for Nigeria covering FY2026–2032, as well as the Nigeria Sustainable Agricultural Value-Chains for Growth Programme. This results-based initiative aims to improve agricultural productivity, strengthen value chains, increase private sector participation, enhance food security, and support early childhood development.
The forum supported continued collaboration with the Federal Government, the World Bank, and other stakeholders to ensure successful implementation across participating states. On nutrition, governors reaffirmed their commitment to reducing child malnutrition following a presentation from the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning on the National Nutrition 774 Initiative. They noted ongoing work on a National Nutrition Bill and urged continued stakeholder engagement to strengthen the legal and policy framework for nutrition governance.
Presidency Announces Update on State Police
Meanwhile, the Presidency reported progress on establishing state police as consultations advance toward constitutional amendment. Gbajabiamila stated that discussions have moved to the legal framework stage, with the enabling law expected after constitutional changes. The Federal Government held a high-level security meeting as President Tinubu pushes for decentralized policing to address insecurity across Nigeria.
