U.S. Congressman Backs Nigeria’s State Police Reform, Says It Will Strengthen Security

A member of the United States Congress, Riley Moore, has welcomed the passage of Nigeria’s state police bill by the National Assembly, describing the reform as a significant step toward addressing insecurity and enhancing community protection across the country.

Moore, a Republican lawmaker representing West Virginia, reacted after the Senate approved the constitutional amendment bill, completing its passage through the National Assembly.

In a statement shared on social media, the congressman said the establishment of state-level police forces would empower sub-national governments to respond more effectively to security challenges and improve public safety.

According to him, the reform aligns with calls he has made both publicly and privately since he began advocating for stronger measures to address violence affecting communities in Nigeria.

“I’m encouraged to see Nigeria’s Senate approve legislation to establish state-level police forces — a reform I’ve called for publicly and privately for years,” Moore stated.

He also praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting the initiative, noting that the legislation still requires approval by two-thirds of Nigeria’s state legislatures before it can become law.

“President Tinubu deserves credit for pushing it forward, but now we need two-thirds of the states to ratify before it will take effect,” he added.

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Moore had earlier applauded the House of Representatives for passing the proposal and disclosed that he had consistently raised the issue during engagements with Nigerian officials and delegations, including discussions with First Lady Oluremi Tinubu during visits to Washington.

The U.S. lawmaker has repeatedly argued that decentralised policing could improve security responses, particularly in areas affected by violent crime, communal clashes and other forms of unrest.

The proposed legislation seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow states to establish and operate their own police services alongside the Nigeria Police Force.

Before the bill can be transmitted to the President for assent, it must secure the endorsement of at least 24 state Houses of Assembly.