The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the establishment of State Police, declaring that Nigeria is now ripe for decentralised policing as part of broader security reforms.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known during a courtesy visit by the Centre for Crisis Communication led by its Chairman, Chris Olukolade, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The Minister stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to ensure the creation of State Police as soon as the required constitutional and legislative processes are concluded.
He noted that the President has already urged the National Assembly to provide the necessary legal backing for the reform.
According to the Minister, decentralised policing has become essential in tackling Nigeria’s evolving security landscape.
He stressed that strengthening internal security must go hand-in-hand with reinforcing national communication systems, particularly in the digital era where crises are shaped both by events and the rapid spread of information.
He described digital innovation as critical to ensuring timely, coordinated and accurate communication during national emergencies and other sensitive situations.
The Minister welcomed the Centre’s proposals, including the establishment of a National Crisis Communication Hub and a Crisis Communication Performance Index, noting that the initiatives align with the Ministry’s mandate.
He assured the delegation that the Ministry would review the report of the November 2025 National Symposium on Digital Innovation and Crisis Communication and consider areas of collaboration.
While acknowledging the importance of artificial intelligence, social media and emerging digital tools, the Minister emphasised the need for responsible, ethical and patriotic use that balances freedom of expression with national interest.
Earlier, Major General Olukolade (Rtd) commended the Minister for supporting reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s crisis communication framework.
He said the November 2025 symposium produced practical recommendations focused on modernising infrastructure, building capacity and promoting inclusive governance in crisis communication.
He called for the Minister’s endorsement of the proposed communication hub and performance index, describing them as vital tools for real-time monitoring, coordinated response to misinformation and enhanced institutional accountability.
The Minister also praised the Centre’s efforts in promoting inter-agency collaboration, research, training and media monitoring, including its partnership engagements with the Office of the National Security Adviser.
He reiterated that effective national communication requires collaboration between government, civil society and professional bodies.
Senior officials of the Ministry and representatives of the Centre were present at the meeting.
