Abuja, Nigeria – Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Monday, February 23, 2026, stressed the urgent need to establish state police to combat escalating insecurity in the country. The announcement came during an Iftar dinner at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, approximately 20 state governors, and members of the Federal Executive Council.
Tinubu told the governors, “What I promised you will not be postponed. We will establish state police to combat insecurity. Start looking around you.” He highlighted the immediate challenges posed by banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings, which are exploiting ungoverned areas across Nigeria.
The push for state police follows discussions at the National Economic Council (NEC), where governors agreed that localised policing structures were essential. However, the operational framework and coordination between state and federal security agencies are still under consideration.
During the dinner, Tinubu encouraged governors to focus on grassroots development so that ordinary citizens feel the benefits of democracy. He also drew attention to the concurrent Muslim Ramadan and Christian Lenten seasons, framing them as a period that symbolizes faith, sacrifice, and national unity.
He praised Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, describing him as “my son, the farmer from Niger,” and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for his inclusive outreach to religious communities during Ramadan. Tinubu also urged party members to show tolerance during internal congresses, advising, “Tolerate everybody. Build the structure in this period of faith, unity, harmony and sacrifice that you are preaching. Do it. Let the young ones breathe.”
Acknowledging that governance invites both praise and criticism, he said, “There are a lot of complaints and commendations coming from all angles. They will come at me too, but as long as we brace together, move together and determine to rescue this country, the best is yet to come for Nigeria. We’re out of the woods. We’re out of the dark tunnel of uncertainty. The economy is picking up. Let’s help those who are unemployed.”
Speaking on behalf of the governors, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma highlighted the importance of the interfaith gathering, noting that religious and ethnic differences should not divide the country. He praised the President for fostering political stability and effective partnerships with state governments.