President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the Senate to begin amending the 1999 Constitution to allow the establishment of state police, saying Nigeria must urgently reform its security system to tackle terrorism, banditry and insurgency.

He made the appeal on Wednesday during an interfaith breaking of fast with lawmakers at the State House, Abuja, stressing that state policing would enable subnational governments to better secure their communities.

Tinubu also commended the National Assembly for supporting his economic reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange adjustments, which he said were aimed at ending corruption and promoting stability. He dismissed claims of stifling opposition, describing recent defections as personal decisions.

Responding, Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured the President of the chamber’s loyalty and cooperation, noting that executive proposals are carefully reviewed in the national interest.