In a major development for Nigeria’s security architecture, the House of Representatives has approved a constitutional amendment bill seeking the creation of state police forces across the country.

The proposal received overwhelming backing from lawmakers, with 289 members voting in favour and only one member opposing the measure during proceedings on the floor of the House.

Voting was conducted through a show of hands after technical issues reportedly affected the chamber’s electronic voting system.

The passage of the bill represents a significant step in the long-running debate over decentralising policing powers and granting states greater responsibility for maintaining security within their jurisdictions.

Supporters of the initiative argue that state police will improve local intelligence gathering, enhance rapid response capabilities and help tackle growing security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime.

The House’s approval is being viewed as a landmark moment in Nigeria’s efforts to reform its security framework and address persistent concerns over the effectiveness of the country’s highly centralised policing system.