Atedo Peterside, founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank, has endorsed the historic agreement between Nigeria’s federal government and the governors of its 36 states to establish state police forces.
Officials say the move addresses the country’s escalating security challenges, and Peterside strongly supported the decision.
In a statement on social media platform X, Peterside stated, “I consider this decision to establish State Policing alongside Federal Policing as being at least 10 years overdue. Better late than never.”
The agreement was reached during an emergency meeting in Abuja, led by President Bola Tinubu and attended by key figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and several state governors.
Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, provided insights into the discussions, mentioning the possibility of setting up state police as part of the collaborative efforts between the federal and state governments.
The meeting also addressed national security and food supply issues, with President Tinubu directing security officials to work with state governors to address hoarding food commodities.
The broader initiative aims to ensure Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in food production and reduce reliance on imports.
Idris emphasized President Tinubu’s and state governors’ commitment to collective engagement on national issues, highlighting the importance of ongoing dialogues between the federal government and state authorities.