Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has declared that the state is fully prepared for the establishment of state police, saying the initiative would strengthen security efforts and provide better protection for lives and property.
The governor made the declaration on Wednesday while inaugurating the Inter-Agencies Task Force on Drug Abuse and Trafficking at the Ante Chamber of the Government House in Kano.
According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Yusuf said the proposed state police system is intended to reinforce existing security structures rather than replace the Nigeria Police Force.
“The proposed State Police will complement, not compete with, the Nigeria Police Force. Both institutions share the responsibility of protecting lives and property and maintaining law and order,” Yusuf said.
The debate over the creation of state police has gained momentum in recent years as many states and stakeholders argue that a decentralised policing system would improve intelligence gathering, enhance rapid response to security threats, and address rising cases of banditry, kidnapping and other crimes. While several state governments have endorsed the proposal, its implementation depends on constitutional amendments by the National Assembly.
Reaffirming Kano’s readiness, the governor maintained that the state possesses the resources and commitment required to operate its own police service once the necessary legal framework is in place.
“Kano State has the institutional capacity, human resources, and political will to establish and sustain State Police when the necessary constitutional frameworks are in place,” he said.
Yusuf also stressed that effective collaboration among security agencies remains essential to tackling evolving security challenges across the country.
“These structures must operate as partners to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response, and build public confidence in law enforcement,” he added.
The governor pledged his administration’s continued support for initiatives designed to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
“We will support every legitimate initiative that strengthens Nigeria’s security architecture and creates a safer environment for citizens,” he stated.
Speaking on the newly inaugurated Inter-Agencies Task Force on Drug Abuse and Trafficking, Yusuf described it as another step in the state’s efforts to combat drug-related crimes through coordinated action by relevant agencies.
“This task force shows our commitment to addressing drug abuse and illicit trafficking through strong collaboration among security agencies and stakeholders,” the governor said.
He urged members of the task force to carry out their responsibilities with dedication, professionalism and integrity.
“The fight against drug abuse requires sustained commitment, professionalism, and effective inter-agency cooperation,” Yusuf said.
