The National Economic Council (NEC) has postponed deliberations on the establishment of state police until January 2025, following extensive discussions during its recent meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The meeting, held at the State House, was attended by governors, deputy governors, ministers, and other presidential aides.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, while briefing State House Correspondents after the over four-hour meeting, revealed that the 36 state governors expressed overwhelming support for the establishment of state police as a solution to the security challenges confronting their states.
“Virtually every state has its own peculiar security challenges, and many agree that state police is the way forward,” Governor Sani said.
However, the council decided to defer the discussion to its January 2025 meeting to allow further consultations and the submission of a comprehensive report by the NEC secretariat.
Governor Sani underscored the urgent need for enhanced security measures, noting the existence of ungoverned spaces and personnel shortages in federal security agencies.
“The establishment of state police will help address these gaps, particularly in states grappling with unique security issues,” he added.
The secretariat plans to engage stakeholders before the January meeting to develop a detailed framework for state policing, which many believe could transform Nigeria’s security architecture.
In a separate resolution, NEC approved the disbursement of additional funds to state governments affected by recent flood disasters.
The funds aim to support communities devastated by flooding, which has led to significant loss of lives and properties.
NEC also approved 0.05% of non-oil federation revenue as funding for the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation, and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).
Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo announced the decision, highlighting the commission’s financial challenges.
“RMAFC plays a vital role in ensuring equitable revenue allocation across the federation, but it has been operating under significant financial constraints,” Governor Soludo said.
The council reviewed a proposal for 0.75% of non-oil revenue but settled on 0.05%, subject to National Assembly approval.
NEC further directed RMAFC to draft and submit a new legislative bill to modernize its governing framework.
Governor Soludo stressed the importance of the reforms, stating, “Adequate funding and an updated legal framework are essential to empower RMAFC to meet its obligations effectively.”
The NEC meeting reflects the federal and state governments’ commitment to tackling critical issues, including security, disaster relief, and fiscal reforms, with discussions set to continue into the new year.