As insecurity grips Nigeria with rising kidnappings and banditry, the National Economic Council (NEC) has again postponed critical talks on establishing state police. This delay fuels frustration amid calls for decentralized security, highlighting key trends like Nigeria insecurity, state police Nigeria, NEC state police, Tinubu state police, and clamour for state police.
The Latest Setback in Abuja
The National Economic Council convened its 152nd meeting in Abuja on September 18, 2025, but once more sidestepped deliberations on state police. Vice President Kashim Shettima presided over the session, which prioritized food security and flood preparedness instead.
Despite all 36 states submitting reports on the proposal earlier this year, the council has delayed full discussions three times, including in April 2025. Officials assured that the matter would receive exhaustive attention in future meetings, but no firm timeline emerged.
Background on Nigeria’s Security Crisis
Nigeria faces escalating threats from Boko Haram in the northeast, banditry in the northwest, and kidnappings nationwide. Centralized policing under the federal Nigeria Police Force struggles with these challenges, prompting demands for state-level forces.
The push for state police gained momentum under President Bola Tinubu, who in June 2025 declared it “no longer optional” amid daily fears for citizens. Proponents argue it would enable faster, localized responses, while critics fear abuse by state governors.
Expert Opinions and Public Outcry
Experts like security analysts emphasize that state police could curb insecurity if implemented with safeguards against political misuse. Afenifere, a Yoruba socio-cultural group, and northern leaders have intensified calls for action, urging NEC to prioritize the issue.
Public reactions on social media reflect anger and urgency. X users decry the delays, with posts highlighting how insecurity disrupts daily life and economic activities. One viral thread noted, “With kidnappings on the rise, how long can Nigeria wait?”
Relevance to U.S. Audiences
This ongoing impasse affects U.S. interests deeply. Nigeria, a top oil exporter, sees insecurity disrupt production, potentially spiking global energy prices and impacting American consumers’ fuel costs.
Politically, the U.S. provides counter-terrorism aid to Nigeria, and instability could heighten migration pressures or threaten investments by American firms. For the Nigerian diaspora in the U.S., it means heightened worries about family safety back home, influencing remittances and community ties.
Path Forward: Urgency Amid Delays
Nigeria’s NEC failure to address state police underscores a persistent gap in tackling insecurity, leaving citizens vulnerable. As demands grow, future meetings must confront this head-on to foster stability. With trends like Nigeria insecurity, state police Nigeria, NEC state police, Tinubu state police, and clamour for state police dominating discussions, decisive action could reshape the nation’s security landscape.
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