The Nasarawa State Government has declared its preparedness to establish its own state police force, a significant move aimed at decisively tackling the security challenges plaguing the region.
Constitutional Readiness for State Policing
This announcement was made by the State Commissioner for Security and Sundry Matters, CP Usman Baba (Rtd), during a ministerial briefing held in Lafia, the state capital, on December 2, 2025. Commissioner Baba stated that the Governor Abdullahi Sule-led administration is "more than ready" to launch the State Police Force, pending the necessary constitutional amendments at the national level.
Baba emphasized that the state government has prioritized security since its inception in 2019, providing consistent support to existing security agencies. This support includes the provision of operational vehicles, critical equipment, and essential logistics to enhance their effectiveness.
Protecting Vulnerable Areas and a Warning to Kidnappers
The commissioner detailed specific measures already implemented to safeguard vulnerable locations. He confirmed that security personnel have been deployed to numerous schools in identified black spots, major worship centres, and across all 13 local government areas of the state.
Furthermore, the state is employing a collaborative security approach. The government is working closely with formal security agencies, vigilante groups, and neighbourhood watch teams to address the rampant menace of kidnapping. Issuing a stern warning, Baba declared that Nasarawa State would soon become "hot" for kidnappers, and anyone apprehended would face the full wrath of the law.
National Context and Push for Reform
This development in Nasarawa aligns with a broader national conversation and push for state policing in Nigeria. The move comes against the backdrop of rising insecurity and kidnapping incidents across the country, particularly in the northern region.
Recall that the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, recently commented on the situation, stating that the international community is collaborating with Nigeria to defeat terrorist elements. In a related significant step, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has previously urged the National Assembly to amend the constitution to permit states that are ready to establish their own police forces.
The Nasarawa State Government's plan is fundamentally driven by the desire to create a safer environment to attract investors and ensure lasting peace for its residents. The establishment of a state police force is viewed as a critical component in achieving this overarching goal.
