The National Assembly of Nigeria resumes plenary today, with several pressing national issues expected to dominate proceedings. Proposed state police, the recent deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State, and ongoing constitutional reforms are high on the agenda. The lawmakers will also revisit electoral reforms and other critical national issues as both chambers return from recess.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Yemi Adaramodu, disclosed that the Senate would prioritise constitutional amendments and major national challenges upon resumption. He specifically identified the proposed establishment of state police as one of the key issues requiring legislative attention. The Senate will expand on this and other pressing issues.
The National Assembly had on September 16 transmitted the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026, seeking to establish State Police Services, to the 36 state Houses of Assembly. This move followed renewed calls for a decentralised policing structure amid persistent security challenges across the country. The legislature clarified that the State Police Bill was the only constitutional amendment proposal transmitted to the state legislatures so far.
The proposal has already begun receiving attention from state legislatures. On Monday, the Rivers State House of Assembly approved the State Police Bill forwarded by the National Assembly, becoming the third state, after Osun and Edo, to approve the proposal. The bill seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to create a legal framework for state police while retaining the Nigeria Police Force at the federal level.
The Rivers State House of Assembly Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, called for constitutional safeguards to ensure civilian control, protect human rights, and guarantee access to criminal information, while warning against possible abuse of the proposed system. The lawmakers unanimously approved the bill. In Kano State, the House of Assembly on Monday commenced consideration of the proposal.
The Majority Leader, Lawan Hussaini Chediyar Yangurasa, confirmed that the bill had been read on the floor and referred to the appropriate committee for further consideration. The National Assembly's decision to prioritise the State Police Bill was driven by widespread concerns over insecurity and the effectiveness of the existing policing structure.
The National Assembly will also address the issue of 37 suspected illegal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. This incident has raised concerns about the treatment of suspects and the need for improved security measures. The lawmakers will discuss this and other pressing national issues to find lasting solutions.
Key points
- The National Assembly will prioritise constitutional amendments, including the proposed establishment of state police.
- The State Police Bill has been approved by three states: Osun, Edo, and Rivers.
- The National Assembly will also address the issue of 37 suspected illegal miners who died in Niger State.
