The Governor of Benue State, Fr. Hyacinth Alia has praised the passage of the State Police Bill by the House of Representatives as a bold and commendable step towards strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
In a broadcast to the people of Benue State on the 2026 Democracy Day, Fr. Alia said the bill recognises the need for a more localised and responsive policing system capable of addressing the peculiar security challenges facing different states and communities across the country.
“The lawmakers deserve appreciation for demonstrating courage, foresight, and commitment to the protection of lives and property.
“I urge Nigerians to view this development in good faith and as a necessary reform aimed at enhancing public safety and deepening grassroots security.
“With appropriate safeguards, accountability mechanisms, and constitutional checks, state police can complement existing security agencies, improve intelligence gathering, and promote quicker responses to threats.
“This is a significant milestone in our collective quest for a safer and more secure Nigeria,” Fr. Alia said.
Fr. Alia explained that his administration has made sincere efforts to secure the state, by strengthening security through collaboration with security agencies, provision of over 150 operational vehicles and 600 motorcycles, establishment of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, and the Anyam Nyor Joint Task Force.
