Wednesday, July 29, 2026

‘We’re Not Going to Make Up the Numbers’ — Haiti Star Pierrot Sends Strong World Cup Warning

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Haiti's forward #20 Frantzdy Pierrot and New Zealand's defender #05 Michael Boxall fight for the ball during an international friendly football match between Haiti and New Zealand inFlorida on Tuesday. (Photo: AFP via Getty Images via FIFA.com)

Haiti striker Frantzdy Pierrot has declared that the Caribbean nation is heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with ambition rather than fear, insisting the team is ready to compete against some of the world’s biggest football powers despite being regarded as underdogs.

As preparations intensify for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, Pierrot says belief, unity and resilience have become the driving forces behind a Haitian squad eager to make a lasting impression on the global stage.

Haiti secured a historic place at the World Cup after an impressive qualification campaign, sparking nationwide celebrations in a country where football remains a source of hope and national pride. The team now faces a daunting Group F assignment alongside Brazil, Morocco and Scotland, but Pierrot believes the challenge has only strengthened the players’ resolve.

“We’re fully aware how tough this group is,” the forward admitted. “We’re up against some of the world’s footballing heavyweights, who have a wealth of experience and quality. Still, we believe in ourselves.”

The striker stressed that Haiti’s objective extends beyond simply participating in the competition.

“We’re not going to the World Cup just to make up the numbers,” he said. “We want to compete, represent Haiti with pride, and let the world see our spirit, passion and courage.”

Pierrot’s confidence reflects the mood within the Haitian camp as the team continues its preparations. Having ended a long wait for a return to football’s biggest stage, the players are determined to use the tournament as an opportunity to showcase the country’s talent and resilience.

The 31-year-old striker, who plays a key leadership role within the squad, said qualifying for the World Cup united a nation struggling with economic hardship and security challenges.

“I remember the day we qualified. Thousands of people filled the streets, hugging, singing and dancing together,” he recalled. “Before that, many people were afraid to leave their homes because of gang violence, but at that moment, all of those problems seemed to disappear.”

For Pierrot, the World Cup represents more than football. It is an opportunity for Haiti to tell a different story to the world.

“In Haiti, football means everything because it gives people hope, pride and a sense of unity,” he said. “The fact that Haiti is in the World Cup shines a positive light on the country and its people.”

The striker also reflected on the decisive goal he scored against Costa Rica, a moment widely regarded as the turning point that sealed Haiti’s qualification.

“It’s a difficult moment to describe because I understood what it meant for the whole country,” Pierrot said. “When the ball went in, the first thing I thought about was my family, my team-mates and the Haitian people.”

With preparations gathering momentum, the Haitian squad is embracing a philosophy rooted in collective strength. Pierrot pointed to a famous Haitian saying that has become a source of inspiration within the team.

“In Haiti, we have a saying: ‘L’union fait la force’ — strength lies in unity,” he said. “When we work together, anything is possible.”

Although Brazil enter the group as overwhelming favourites and Morocco arrive fresh from their emergence as a global football force, Haiti believes its fighting spirit can make a difference.

The team’s ambition, according to Pierrot, is simple: compete fearlessly and make the nation proud.

“We want to make our country proud and be fearless in every match,” he said. “People may think we are the underdogs, but the Haitian people have always been fighters.”

As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, Haiti’s players are carrying the hopes of millions. And if Pierrot’s words are any indication, the Caribbean nation intends to arrive at the tournament ready to challenge expectations and prove it belongs among football’s elite.

“Hopefully, this will inspire a new generation of Haitian youngsters to believe that no dream is too big,” he added.

FIFA Unveils Record $355m Club Benefits Programme for 2026 World Cup, Extends Rewards to Qualifiers

By
Kazeem Busari
-

FIFA has announced a major expansion of its Club Benefits Programme (CBP) for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, unveiling a record-breaking $355 million fund that will reward clubs around the world for releasing players to both World Cup qualifiers and the tournament itself.

The new framework, approved by the FIFA Council as part of a renewed memorandum of understanding between FIFA and the European Football Clubs (EFC), represents a 70 per cent increase from the amount distributed during the 2022 FIFA World Cup cycle.

In a significant departure from previous editions, FIFA confirmed that clubs will now receive financial compensation for players released to FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, a move aimed at broadening the reach of the programme and ensuring that more clubs benefit from the global showpiece.

Under the revised distribution model, $100 million has been earmarked for clubs that released players for the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. The payment structure will be based on a per-player, per-match formula. FIFA noted that with 905 qualifying matches already played worldwide, the anticipated benefit is approximately $2,360 per player per match.

An additional $250 million will be shared among clubs whose players participate in the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup finals, scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Payments will be calculated according to a per-player, per-day basis, taking into account both squad selection and the duration of each player’s involvement in the tournament.

According to FIFA, the minimum expected payment stands at approximately $5,000 per player per day, although final figures will be determined after the conclusion of the tournament.

The remaining $5 million has been reserved to cover administrative costs associated with implementing the programme. Any balance from the reserve fund will be redirected toward global club football initiatives under an agreement between FIFA and the EFC.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the initiative as a landmark step in recognising the role clubs play in developing players who go on to represent their countries on football’s biggest stage.

“Thousands of clubs around the world contribute every day to the development of players who dream of representing their countries at the FIFA World Cup,” Infantino said.

“Through the FIFA World Cup 2026 Club Benefits Programme, and thanks to the inclusion of all qualifying matches for the first time, more clubs than ever before will receive a share of the financial benefits generated by the FIFA World Cup, recognising their essential contribution to the success of international football.”

Highlighting the scale of the programme, the FIFA president added: “From approximately 1,000 matches combined from qualifiers and the final tournament, this programme will deliver USD 355 million back to club football — an increase of 70% compared to the last edition.”

Infantino also linked the enhanced rewards package to the expansion of the World Cup, noting that the larger tournament format would generate broader benefits across football’s ecosystem.

“This is another benefit from the expanded FIFA World Cup – providing more support across the entire football ecosystem to the clubs that provide all the players who compete to shine on the global stage,” he said.

European Football Clubs Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaïfi welcomed the agreement, describing it as a significant achievement for clubs of all sizes across Europe and beyond.

“The Club Benefits Programme is an essential part of EFC’s long-term strategic partnership with FIFA and will benefit many hundreds of European and international clubs of all sizes,” Al-Khelaïfi said.

He added that the inclusion of qualification matches marked an important evolution of the programme. “I am very pleased that, for the first time, the financial support will also cover FIFA World Cup qualification matches, ensuring that more clubs than ever before will benefit from releasing their players.”

Al-Khelaïfi stressed the importance of collaboration between clubs and national teams, saying: “Clubs play a fundamental role in the success of international football through the development, employment and release of players, while the national team game continues to support the global growth and visibility of club football.”

FIFA also clarified that eligibility for payments will be determined based on a player’s registration status at the time of release. Special provisions have been included to address situations involving replacement players and mid-tournament transfers, ensuring transparency and fairness in the allocation process.

The announcement comes as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be the largest edition in the tournament’s history, featuring 48 nations and an expanded schedule across three host countries. With the enhanced Club Benefits Programme, FIFA aims to strengthen ties with clubs worldwide while ensuring that the financial rewards generated by international football are shared more broadly across the game.

Police Foil Kidnap Attempt in Abuja, Recover AK-47 Rifle, Ammunition After Gun Battle

By
Laziz Olatunde
-

Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have foiled a kidnapping attempt in the Byazhin area of Abuja, rescuing a couple and recovering an AK-47 rifle, ammunition and other exhibits after a fierce gun battle with suspected kidnappers.

The FCT Police Command disclosed that the operation was carried out in the early hours of Thursday, June 5, 2026, following intelligence reports about the presence of suspected kidnappers around the Redeemed Church area of Byazhin, near Paze Hills.

According to the police, officers attached to the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit swiftly mobilised to the scene in a coordinated operation led by the Officer Commanding (OC) of the unit after receiving intelligence on the activities of the armed suspects.

Upon arrival, the operatives reportedly discovered that the gunmen were attempting to forcefully gain entry into a residential building with the intention of abducting the occupants. The suspects allegedly opened fire on the police team immediately they sighted the operatives, triggering a prolonged exchange of gunfire.

The command said the ensuing gun battle lasted for more than 30 minutes, during which the police successfully repelled the attackers and thwarted the planned abduction. The suspects were said to have escaped into nearby bushes with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.

Following the operation, police operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine and seven rounds of live ammunition from the scene.

The intended victims, identified simply as Mr. Samson and his wife, were rescued unharmed. However, due to the traumatic nature of the incident, they were evacuated to the General Hospital in Gwarinpa, where they received medical attention before being placed under protective custody.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police for the FCT, Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, commended the officers involved in the operation for their courage and professionalism.

The police chief praised the operatives for their swift response, which prevented what could have been another kidnapping incident in the Federal Capital Territory. He also reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Abuja.

Sanusi further directed intensified surveillance and security patrols within the affected area and surrounding communities to prevent any resurgence of criminal activities and to ensure the safety of residents.

Lagos Police Arrest Four Suspected Eiye Cultists, Recover Firearms, Ammunition

By
Laziz Olatunde
-

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested four suspected notorious cultists allegedly linked to cult-related violence and other criminal activities in the Egbeda area of Lagos, recovering firearms, live ammunition and a knife during a targeted operation.

The suspects, identified by the police as Nurudeen Ganiu, 34; Oluwaleke Fagbula, 38; Emmanuel Silas, 41; and Nurudeen Abdullahi, 41, were apprehended following credible intelligence indicating that suspected cult members were conducting an initiation ceremony around midnight in the Alimosho axis of the state.

According to the police, operatives swiftly launched a covert operation based on the intelligence report, leading to the arrest of the four suspects. During the raid, officers recovered a locally made cut-to-size pistol, an English Beretta pistol loaded with 10 rounds of live ammunition, and a jack knife.

Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the suspects is an alleged cult gang kingpin and a former student of a university in Ogun State who was reportedly rusticated in 2022 over cult-related activities. Police investigators also uncovered evidence suggesting that the group had been involved in thuggery and had allegedly terrorised residents of Egbeda and surrounding communities for some time.

The command further disclosed that the suspects confessed to being active members of the notorious Eiye Confraternity, a secret cult group known for violent activities in parts of the country.

Investigators said the gang allegedly operated by using motorcycles to launch attacks on unsuspecting members of the public and disrupt social gatherings at gunpoint, creating fear among residents in the area.

Commending the operatives for the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, praised their professionalism and prompt response, which led to the arrests and recovery of weapons.

The police chief also reassured residents of the command’s commitment to tackling cultism and other violent crimes across the state, stressing that efforts to dismantle criminal gangs and improve public safety would continue.

The latest operation underscores ongoing efforts by the Lagos State Police Command to curb cult-related violence and strengthen security in communities across the state, particularly in areas that have witnessed recurring clashes and criminal activities linked to cult groups.

Dangote Refinery Hits 700,000 Barrels Daily Capacity, Eyes Global Refining Leadership

By
Kazeem Busari
-

Nigeria’s ambitious push for energy self-sufficiency has received a major boost as the Dangote Petroleum Refinery announced that it has increased its crude oil processing capacity to 700,000 barrels per day (bpd), marking a significant milestone in the facility’s operational expansion and strengthening its position among the world’s largest refining complexes.

The refinery, located in Lagos and owned by billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote, disclosed that the achievement followed a successful performance test conducted by Process Licensors. The development represents a major leap from the refinery’s nameplate capacity of 650,000 bpd and highlights its growing ability to maximize efficiency through advanced engineering and operational processes.

According to the refinery, the latest increase is part of a broader strategy to progressively expand output to 1.4 million barrels per day within the next 30 months, a move that could potentially position the facility as the largest refinery in the world.

Vice President for Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, said the ramp-up reflects the company’s long-term vision of transforming Nigeria into a major refining hub while supporting energy security across Africa and beyond.

The expansion is expected to significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products, conserve foreign exchange, and enhance the country’s role in the global energy market. The refinery noted that its products are already being exported to several African countries as well as international markets, including the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands. It also revealed that gasoline supplies have reached the American market, while jet fuel exports have extended to Saudi Arabia and other destinations.

The company said the refinery has become increasingly important to Africa’s energy landscape, particularly following disruptions in global fuel supply chains linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. According to the statement, a growing number of African countries are now sourcing refined petroleum products from the facility to strengthen their energy security.

Industry observers have described the refinery as a transformative project for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Since commencing operations, the facility has played a key role in reducing the nation’s reliance on imported fuels while creating a more resilient domestic refining industry.

The refinery’s management said its operations align with national objectives to increase local refining capacity and extract greater value from Nigeria’s abundant crude oil resources. In addition to supporting fuel supply stability, the project is expected to drive industrial growth, stimulate job creation, and improve the country’s trade balance.

Beyond fuels, the refinery is also positioned to support Nigeria’s manufacturing sector through the production of industrial feedstocks such as polypropylene, a key raw material used in packaging materials, detergents and a wide range of consumer goods.

Looking ahead, Dangote said the refinery’s expansion plans underscore its commitment to becoming a globally competitive refining powerhouse. The projected increase to 1.4 million barrels per day is expected to further strengthen Nigeria’s energy independence while enhancing the country’s influence in international energy markets.

Qing Madi Accuses Ex-Label Boss of Forgery, Theft, Illegal Takedowns

By
Justice Oladapo
-
Qing Madi

Rising Nigerian singer Qing Madi has reignited her public dispute with former label boss Joy Tongo of JTON Music, leveling serious allegations of financial misconduct, document forgery, and deliberate career sabotage during a recent TikTok Live session.

“She stole from me and did a bunch of weird things like forging my signature. She sued me for $2M, and she lost the case because I was under 18. She took down ‘Pepper Me.’ I worked with my team to prove it’s an illegal takedown. They went through the corners again to take down the project,” Qing Madi stated.

The 19-year-old artist, whose real name is Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, has been locked in a bitter battle with her former label since parting ways last year. She claims the conflict escalated after she left JTON Music, with the label allegedly using its distribution power to repeatedly remove her music from streaming platforms, including tracks from her Barely Legal EP.

According to Qing Madi, after successfully proving the initial takedown of her collaboration “Pepper Me” (featuring Zinoleesky) was illegal and getting it restored, the label allegedly found alternative ways to target the broader project. Several songs from the EP were recently removed from Spotify, though the project remains available on other platforms like Apple Music.

The feud dates back to earlier this year when Qing Madi first went public about the alleged interference, comparing her situation to that of singer Cynthia Morgan, who has spoken out about industry challenges. In April 2026, she posted messages pleading for the label to “leave me alone” after what she described as a $1 million lawsuit loss by the label.

Joy Tongo has pushed back against the claims, stating that any takedowns were carried out under a court injunction and denying the more serious accusations of forgery and theft. The label has pointed to its past support in breaking Qing Madi’s earlier hits.

NBA Condemns Excessive Bail Conditions, Demands Judicial Reforms

By
Kazeem Busari
-

The Nigerian Bar Association has expressed concern over what it described as the growing trend of excessive and impractical bail conditions imposed by courts and law enforcement agencies across the country, warning that the development is undermining the constitutional right to personal liberty and the presumption of innocence.

In a statement titled “Bail Conditions Should Not Undermine the Essence of Bail,” the association said it had observed with increasing concern the practice of imposing stringent bail requirements by courts as well as agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.

According to the NBA, the frequent insistence on sureties who are senior civil servants on specified grade levels, alongside demands for landed properties of high value, has transformed bail from a mechanism designed to guarantee attendance at trial into what it termed a “tool of pretrial detention.”

The association noted that many accused persons who are constitutionally presumed innocent and have been granted bail often remain behind bars because they are unable to meet the conditions attached to their release.

“The consequence is that many persons who are constitutionally presumed innocent and have ostensibly been granted bail remain incarcerated because the conditions attached to their release are beyond their reach,” the NBA stated.

Reaffirming the legal purpose of bail, the association stressed that it is a constitutional safeguard intended to secure the attendance of an accused person in court while preserving liberty pending the determination of guilt or innocence.

“It is neither a punishment nor a mechanism for imposing pre-trial incarceration by indirect means,” the NBA said, adding that “the law is settled that bail conditions must be reasonable, practical, and capable of being fulfilled by the accused person.”

The association cited the Supreme Court decision in Suleman & Anor v. Commissioner of Police, Plateau State (2008), which held that the objective of bail pending trial is to grant pre-trial freedom to an accused person whose appearance can be secured through appropriate conditions, rather than creating insurmountable obstacles that make release impossible.

The NBA also criticized the continued requirement in some cases that sureties must be senior public servants, particularly those on Grade Levels 16 and 17, arguing that such conditions lack legal justification and fail to reflect prevailing economic realities.

Referencing the Court of Appeal judgment in Dasuki v. Director-General, State Security Service & Ors (2019) LPELR-49182 (CA), the association said the appellate court had unequivocally condemned the practice of mandating serving public officers as sureties.

According to the NBA, the court held that such requirements are “unknown to civilised legal systems” and observed that expecting a civil servant on Grade Level 16 to possess property worth hundreds of millions of naira is both unrealistic and potentially inconsistent with public service regulations and anti-corruption objectives.

The legal body further pointed to Section 165(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, which grants courts discretion in setting bail conditions but expressly provides that such conditions must not be excessive.

“Judicial discretion, though wide, must always be exercised judiciously, reasonably, and in a manner consistent with constitutional guarantees,” the statement said.

The NBA warned that bail conditions that cannot realistically be met amount in practice to a denial of bail and contribute significantly to prolonged pretrial detention and overcrowding in correctional facilities.

The association also challenged the rationale behind restricting acceptable sureties to a particular class of citizens, insisting there is no evidence that senior civil servants are inherently more reliable than other law-abiding Nigerians.

“There is no evidence that civil servants are inherently more reliable as sureties than other law-abiding citizens. Such requirements unduly narrow the pool of eligible sureties and create artificial barriers to the enjoyment of a constitutional right,” it stated.

Calling on judicial officers nationwide to remain guided by the Constitution, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and established judicial precedents, the NBA urged courts to ensure that bail conditions remain fair, reasonable, proportionate and attainable.

The association emphasized that the administration of justice is best served when the rights of accused persons are protected while ensuring their appearance in court through lawful and practical conditions.

“As guardians of the rule of law, we must collectively ensure that the constitutional right to bail remains meaningful and effective,” the NBA said. “Bail should not become a privilege reserved only for those with extraordinary means or connections. It must remain what the law intended it to be, a mechanism for securing attendance at trial while preserving the liberty and dignity of persons who have not been convicted of any offence.”

Ogun Police Launch Investigation After Two Suspects Arrested in Ijebu-Ode 

By
Laziz Olatunde
-

The Nigeria Police Force has commenced an investigation into two male suspects apprehended in the Atiba area of Ijebu-Ode, following a security operation carried out by the Nigeria Forest Security Service.

According to a statement issued by the Ogun State Police Command, the suspects were intercepted by personnel of the Nigeria Forest Security Service on Thursday, June 4, 2026, during a routine security operation in the area. The suspects were subsequently handed over to the police for further investigation.

The command disclosed that preliminary inquiries are already underway to establish the identities of the suspects and determine the circumstances surrounding their activities within the community.

While providing an update on the development, the police assured residents that the situation remains under control and urged members of the public not to panic.

“The suspects were intercepted during a security operation and subsequently handed over for further investigation. Preliminary inquiries are ongoing to establish their identities and determine the circumstances surrounding their activities within the area,” the statement said.

The command further stressed that the suspects would be subjected to a thorough and professional investigation in line with existing laws, adding that any further action would depend on the outcome of the ongoing inquiries.

Reassuring residents of its commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state, the police said there was “no cause for alarm,” noting that law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in safeguarding lives and property.

“The Ogun State Police Command wishes to assure residents that the situation is under control and that there is no cause for alarm. The suspects will be subjected to a thorough and professional investigation in accordance with the law, while any further action will be guided by the outcome of ongoing inquiries,” the command stated.

The police also called on residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could assist in crime prevention and public safety efforts.

The latest development comes amid ongoing efforts by security agencies in Ogun State to strengthen surveillance and enhance community security through collaboration with local and federal security outfits.

Cardi B Extends Olive Branch to Latto Over Leaked Call

By
Justice Oladapo
-
Cardi B and Latto

Cardi B has publicly addressed her past fallout with fellow rapper Latto, offering context and expressing regret over a leaked phone conversation that escalated their rift into public view. In a detailed post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, the “WAP” rapper responded to recent comments from Latto, who confirmed that bars on her new track “Gimme Dat” were aimed at Cardi.

“I truly understand how you feel…and that’s exactly why I chose to apologize publicly because the disrespect became public,” Cardi wrote. “On that call I didn’t even mean to call you that, I didn’t mean any harm.. There’s a difference in what I said vs what I meant. What I could have said was you was too forgiving and gave too much mercy in that situation.. But it was a heated conversation and I let my mouth get the best of me.”

Cardi explained the personal pressures she was under at the time the call surfaced, noting she was eight months pregnant, had just released her album, and felt overwhelmed. “Thats not to excuse what I said but to let you know where I was in my head. I genuinely felt bad about what happened,” she added.

The Bronx rapper emphasized her respect for Latto and detailed efforts to resolve the issue privately. “In 2025 and 2026 I made multiple attempts to connect…I spoke with your manager, your sister, and even texted you directly to take full responsibility. I always had love and respect for you! I always wanted to make it right but making it right looks different for the both of us… I wanted to connect with you but you wanted to address it on your album,” Cardi stated.

The original drama traces back to a leaked rant in which Cardi appeared critical of Latto’s approach to a situation, reportedly using strong language that Latto found disrespectful. Cardi had previously issued a public apology in 2025, stating she respected Latto heavily and even offered to buy her a bag privately.

Tensions reignited with Latto’s recent album release and her appearance on The Breakfast Club on June 4, 2026, where she addressed the lyric and indicated openness to a conversation. Both artists, now mothers, have referenced emotional states and personal circumstances during the initial conflict, leaving the door slightly ajar for potential private reconciliation.

State Police Near Reality as Constitutional Amendment Advances, Presidency Reveals

By
Laziz Olatunde
-
Femi Gbajabiamila

The Federal Government has announced significant progress toward the establishment of state police in Nigeria, with a constitutional amendment expected in the near future following months of consultations involving the Presidency, the National Assembly and key security stakeholders.

Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, disclosed this on Thursday after a high-level consultative meeting on state police convened by the Presidency at the State House in Abuja.

Addressing State House correspondents after the meeting, Gbajabiamila said deliberations on the proposed framework for state policing commenced several months ago on the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and have since recorded substantial progress.

According to him, discussions have now advanced beyond the conceptual stage and are focused on the constitutional amendments required to pave the way for a decentralised policing system across the country.

“We started deliberations in the last three or four months on how to go about the establishment of state police as directed by Mr President,” Gbajabiamila said.

He stressed that the creation of state police involves complex constitutional and legal considerations and cannot be implemented through executive action alone.

“Establishing state police is not something that you do with the snap of the fingers. There is a lot involved in terms of constitution and legalities, and thank God we have now gained a lot of traction,” he stated.

Expressing optimism about the progress made so far, the Chief of Staff added: “Hopefully, the amendment will come shortly, and the details of the amendment will come after that.”

Gbajabiamila explained that the immediate focus is on securing the necessary constitutional changes before work begins on the enabling legislation that will govern the operation, structure and responsibilities of state police formations.

“Right now, what we are looking at is the constitutional amendment itself, and then the enabling law would follow thereafter. That is what we have been deliberating on in the last couple of hours,” he said.

He noted that consultations have revealed broad consensus among stakeholders on the need for state police, indicating that the national conversation has shifted from debating the desirability of the initiative to determining the most effective legal and institutional framework for its implementation.

The Chief of Staff also confirmed that President Tinubu would receive a detailed report on the outcome of the meeting as part of ongoing efforts to advance the proposal.

The latest meeting forms part of a series of engagements initiated by the Federal Government to develop a workable framework for state policing, an initiative aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, improving intelligence gathering at the grassroots level and enhancing the capacity of state governments to respond to local security threats.

President Tinubu has consistently advocated for the establishment of state police in recent months, arguing that Nigeria’s evolving security challenges require a more decentralised approach to law enforcement. The President has maintained that state police would improve community-based security operations, deepen intelligence gathering and strengthen the protection of lives and property across the country.

The consultative meeting brought together several top government officials and security leaders, including Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Prince Lateef Fagbemi, and Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, among others.

 

 

1...161718...89Page 17 of 89

EDITOR PICKS

Recent Posts

© 2026 Metro-Standard