Prominent Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold commitment to establishing state police in Nigeria. The group described the move as a long-overdue step toward strengthening security and enhancing local control over law enforcement.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, Afenifere said it’s encouraged by Tinubu’s recent remarks in Makurdi and Abuja, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to implement state policing.

“We are aware that President Bola Tinubu is committed to having state police take off as soon as possible going by his pronouncements and the steps his government has taken,” Ajayi noted.

The statement added that majority of state governors and Houses of Assembly are now on board with the idea, creating a rare moment of unity across different arms and levels of government.

Afenifere also recalled previous efforts, such as the 2006 M.D. Yusuf Committee and the 2012 Parry Osayande Panel, which both recommended decentralizing Nigeria’s policing structure. However, those recommendations had been largely ignored—until now.

Ajayi stressed that the centralized Nigerian Police Force, in existence since 1960, is no longer sufficient to meet today’s complex security needs.

“There’s a consensus now—from the Executive to the Legislature and among the state governors. With this alignment, we’re hopeful that Nigeria will finally see the dawn of state policing,” Afenifere stated.

The group called on the Tinubu administration to fast-track the necessary legislative and institutional processes so that state police can begin operations without delay.

With insecurity remaining a pressing issue across the country, many Nigerians are watching closely and hoping that this time, action will follow the promises.