The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has praised the National Assembly for passing the State Police Bill, describing the development as a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and addressing growing security challenges across the country.

Governor Alia said the proposed state police system would provide a more localized and responsive approach to policing, enabling states to tackle their unique security concerns more effectively.

He noted that with proper safeguards, accountability measures and constitutional checks, state police would compliment existing security agencies, improve intelligence gathering, and ensure quicker responses to threats.

The governor commended lawmakers for what he described as their courage, foresight, and commitment to protecting lives and property, urging Nigerians to support the reforms in the interest of public safety and grassroots security.

Alia also highlighted efforts by his administration to enhance security in Benue State through collaboration with security agencies, the provision of operational vehicles and motorcycles, and the establishment of local security outfits aimed at maintaining peace across the state.

The State Police Bill recently gained momentum after receiving legislative backing at the federal level, with supporters arguing that decentralized policing will help address insecurity more effectively, while critics have called for safeguards against potential political abuse.