By, Omowumi Hannah

The House of Representatives on Thursday moved Nigeria closer to adopting state policing after approving a report on the proposed establishment of state police and adopting 18 constitutional amendment clauses.

The decision was taken during plenary presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas as lawmakers considered recommendations aimed at strengthening governance, security and the effectiveness of public institutions.

The approval marks a major milestone in the long-running debate over state police, which many stakeholders have championed as a solution to rising insecurity across the country.

Proponents argue that decentralising policing would improve intelligence gathering, enhance rapid response to security threats and allow states to play a more active role in protecting lives and property.

The move comes amid growing calls for urgent reforms to address banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other violent crimes.

Beyond the state police proposal, lawmakers also approved 18 constitutional amendment clauses as part of the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution.

While details of the amendments are expected to emerge after further legislative procedures, the House said the reforms are designed to strengthen democratic institutions and improve governance.

The proposals will still require Senate concurrence and approval by the required number of state Houses of Assembly before becoming law.