By Nathaniel Zaccheaus, Abuja
The proposed State Police Bill will transform Nigeria’s security architecture by providing additional policing capacity at the sub-national level, Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, has said.
Barau said the proposed constitutional amendment, currently before the 36 State Houses of Assembly, would strengthen the country’s capacity to tackle security challenges when approved and fully implemented.
He asserted this in his Independence Day message to Nigerians as the country prepares to mark its 66th anniversary on Thursday, October 1, 2026.
According to him, the bill must secure the approval of the required number of state legislatures, pass the constitutional alteration process and receive presidential assent before it can become law.
Barau said the proposed state police system would provide additional capacity for addressing security challenges at the sub-national level.
He added that the National Assembly remained committed to providing the legislative framework required to tackle the country’s security, economic and developmental challenges.
The Deputy Senate President, who is also the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, said the legislature would continue to work with the Executive within the framework of the Constitution to promote policies aimed at improving the security and welfare of Nigerians.
“We will continue to work with the Executive, within the framework of the Constitution, to provide the necessary legislative support for policies and programmes that promote economic growth, security, development and improved living conditions for Nigerians,” he said.
Barau urged Nigerians to renew their faith in the country and remain committed to building a stronger, more prosperous and secure nation.
He said Nigeria had made significant progress in its 66 years as an independent nation, despite the challenges confronting the country.
“After 66 years of independence, our country has made significant progress, even as we continue to confront challenges. With unity of purpose, resilience and faith in our collective capacity, Nigeria will overcome its present difficulties and emerge stronger,” he said.
The senator also called on Nigerians to support the policies and programmes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“With the cooperation of Nigerians, we will build a stronger, more prosperous and more secure nation. This is a time to remain hopeful and committed to the task of nation-building. We must all play our part in building the Nigeria we desire,” he said.
Barau urged citizens to uphold national unity, peace, justice and tolerance, stressing that Nigeria’s development required collective effort.
He also paid tribute to the country’s founding fathers and others who contributed to the struggle for independence and the subsequent development of Nigeria.
According to him, their sacrifices should remind present and future generations of the values required to sustain the country.
Barau said national unity, peace, justice, tolerance and a shared commitment to progress remained essential to Nigeria’s development.
