The Federal Government on Friday convened a multi-stakeholder engagement in Abuja focused on strengthening state policing and improving coordination among federal, state and local authorities amid ongoing concerns over Nigeria’s security challenges.
The forum, organised by the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, brought together representatives of security agencies, government institutions, civil society and traditional bodies to deliberate on improving governance and service delivery.
Held at Merit House in Maitama, the session was the ministry’s first quarterly stakeholders’ and citizens’ engagement for 2026. According to organisers, the meeting was convened under the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of efforts to encourage broader participation in governance.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Onwusoro Maduka Ihemelendu, said the theme, “Strengthening Intergovernmental Collaboration for State Policing, Community Development and Effective Governance,” reflects the need for closer cooperation among all levels of government.
He described the engagement as a “credible platform for constructive dialogue, knowledge sharing, and consensus-building” aimed at improving Nigeria’s security framework within constitutional limits.
Debate over the creation of state police has intensified in recent years, with advocates arguing that decentralised policing could improve response to local security threats, while critics have raised concerns about oversight and potential abuse. The federal government has indicated openness to reforms, though any changes would require constitutional amendments.
At the session, participants highlighted the importance of grassroots development and stronger local governance structures as part of broader security and development efforts. Discussions also centred on the need for coordinated policy implementation and improved relationships among Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
Ihemelendu emphasised that complex governance challenges cannot be addressed by a single institution, noting the importance of cooperation across government levels. He added that sustained collaboration would be critical to improving service delivery nationwide.
The meeting drew participation from the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, the Federal Ministry of Defence, as well as state and local government officials, civil society organisations and development partners.
In his closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary expressed optimism about the outcomes of the forum, stating that they would contribute to strengthening governance and development efforts. He urged stakeholders to remain committed to joint efforts aimed at national progress.
The engagement forms part of ongoing consultations expected to shape policy discussions around security reforms and intergovernmental relations in Nigeria.
