Tinubu to receive National Policing Bill Sept. 3
President Tinubu to Receive National Policing Bill on September 3, 2026
President Bola Tinubu is set to review the proposed National Policing Bill on September 3, 2026, as part of the Federal Government’s initiative to introduce state policing in Nigeria.
The Presidency has launched a dedicated public website where citizens can submit suggestions and feedback ahead of the bill’s presentation to the National Assembly.
Femi Gbajabiamila, the President’s Chief of Staff, announced the timeline following a meeting of the Presidential Working Group at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Monday. The drafting of the bill is scheduled to occur over seven weeks, from July 27 to September 14.
“The resulting Executive Bill package is scheduled for presentation to the President on September 3,” Gbajabiamila stated.
He highlighted that public consultations will precede the President’s final approval, paving the way for the bill’s submission to lawmakers.
Gbajabiamila characterized the proposed legislation as a significant reform of Nigeria’s policing system, noting, “This is a monumental reform that Nigerians have debated for many years.” The aim is to establish “a lawful, professional and sustainable federal and state policing system” to enhance security and protect citizens’ rights.
Although both chambers of the National Assembly have approved constitutional amendments regarding state policing, Gbajabiamila emphasized that the process remains incomplete. The amendments require the endorsement of a sufficient number of state legislatures to become law. Until that occurs, the Nigeria Police Force remains the only constitutionally recognized policing agency in the country.
He cautioned that state police should not be misused by governors or political leaders to target their opponents. “No political officeholder should be able to direct the arrest of an opponent, the suppression of lawful political activity, or the selective enforcement of the law,” he said.
Additionally, Gbajabiamila noted that federal intervention in state policing should be reserved for exceptional circumstances and must be evidence-based, limited, and subject to review.
The new portal, found at nationalpolicingbill.com, allows Nigerians to submit their suggestions and recommendations for approximately two weeks, with a possibility for an extension.
Regarding the financial implications of implementing state policing, Gbajabiamila indicated it is premature to provide an estimate. “There is no cost that will be too much to secure lives and property,” he stated, adding that the final expenses will depend on thorough assessments and the specific needs of each state.
He further explained that national policing standards aim to ensure minimum requirements across the country while allowing states with greater resources to expand their capabilities as needed.
