The Plateau State House of Assembly has expressed its readiness to fast-track legislation establishing state police once the proposed bill is formally submitted for consideration.
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‎Speaker of the Assembly, Naanlong Daniel, made the commitment on Thursday in Jos during a meeting with members of the Plateau State Advisory Committee on State Police, led by retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Habila Joshak.
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‎According to Daniel, lawmakers view state policing as a crucial step toward addressing the persistent security challenges facing Plateau State and other parts of Nigeria. He noted that the Assembly has consistently supported initiatives aimed at strengthening security and improving public safety.
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‎The Speaker commended President Bola Tinubu for pursuing reforms designed to enhance the nation’s security framework and assured the committee of the legislature’s willingness to provide all necessary legal support for the successful implementation of state policing.
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‎He emphasised that ensuring peace and security requires collective efforts from government institutions, communities, and other stakeholders.
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‎Earlier, Joshak explained that Plateau’s long-standing security concerns make the establishment of state police increasingly important. He said the proposed structure would improve intelligence gathering, enhance security coordination, and boost public trust in law enforcement agencies.
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‎The retired police chief added that the Plateau committee is expected to serve as a model for other states considering similar security arrangements as discussions on state policing continue nationwide.
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‎He stressed that the State Assembly would play a critical role in providing the legal framework and oversight needed for the initiative to succeed.
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‎Another committee member, Chris Kwajah, urged lawmakers to give the bill prompt attention when it reaches the Assembly. He argued that state police would help address unique local security challenges, improve response times to threats, and encourage greater community involvement in maintaining law and order.
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‎The committee further assured that the proposed policing structure would operate fairly and inclusively, serving all residents regardless of religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation, while upholding professionalism, accountability, and justice.
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‎The advisory committee was established by Governor Caleb Mutfwang in March to support the implementation of state policing and develop guidelines for its operation.
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‎The visit to the Assembly formed part of ongoing consultations ahead of the formal presentation of the state police bill for legislative consideration.
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