State Policing, Power Devolution Key To Stronger Security Architecture, Say Speakers

The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria has said the ongoing constitutional amendment process on State Policing and Devolution of Powers has the potential to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2026 National Assembly Open Week in Abuja, the Chairman of the Conference, Hon Dennis Guwor, described the reforms as a historic opportunity to strengthen the federation, improve governance and address the nation’s security challenges.

Guwor, who is the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly (DSHA), commended President Tinubu for his steadfast commitment to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges through institutional reforms.

He also commended the leadership and members of the National Assembly for their vision, patriotism and unwavering commitment to the constitutional deliberations.

The Chairman noted that insecurity remains the greatest challenge confronting the nation, stressing that lasting solutions require stronger collaboration among governments, legislatures, security agencies, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, and local communities.

“Insecurity remains the greatest challenge confronting our nation today. Security is a shared responsibility, and through collective action, we can build a safer and more peaceful nation”, Guwor said.

According to the Conference Chairman, the constitutional reforms, if adopted and faithfully implemented, have the potential to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, improve intergovernmental coordination, bring governance closer to the people, and reinforce the principles of true federalism.

“The ongoing constitutional amendment process, therefore, presents a historic opportunity to strengthen our federation and improve governance. These efforts reflect a genuine determination to strengthen our federal system and build a more secure, responsive and effective governance structure for our country”, he noted.

Guwor stated that the Conference stood ready to continue working closely with the National Assembly, the Presidency and all relevant stakeholders to ensure that the reforms ultimately serve the best interests of Nigerians.

The Chairman applauded the leadership of the National Assembly, particularly the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, for sustaining the National Assembly Open Week as a platform for promoting openness, transparency, accountability and citizen engagement in the legislative process.

“This commendable initiative has become an important platform for promoting openness, transparency, accountability and meaningful citizen engagement in the legislative process”, Guwor said, adding that “Strong democratic institutions are built on openness, accountability and meaningful engagement between elected representatives and the citizens they serve”.

“Together, let us continue to strengthen our democratic institutions, secure our nation, and build a federation that truly serves the aspirations of every Nigerian”, he emphasised.

The Confidence Chairman maintained that a secure Nigeria requires not only strong institutions but also strong partnerships founded on trust, collaboration and active citizen participation.