Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu
ABUJA, Nigeria – Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu says funding will not prevent the establishment of state police as lawmakers work on financial frameworks to sustain the proposed security system.
Kalu spoke Friday after returning from engagements at Chatham House and London Climate Action Week.
His remarks come amid growing concerns that states may struggle financially to operate independent police formations.
According to him, the National Assembly is already developing mechanisms to support state police funding.
“Some responsibilities currently handled by the Federal Government will shift to the states, and funding arrangements are being designed accordingly,” he said.
Kalu noted that increased federal allocations have improved states’ financial capacity.
He also disclosed that additional funding options are being explored to ensure sustainability.
Addressing concerns about political abuse, the deputy speaker said the proposed constitutional amendment contains safeguards.
“The law clearly defines powers, responsibilities and national minimum standards,” he said.
Kalu further revealed that lawmakers intend to repeal and reenact the Police Act after constitutional approval to provide a stronger legal framework.
He dismissed claims that insecurity is worsening nationwide, citing reduced insurgent control of local government areas and increased defence spending.
The deputy speaker also advocated placing defence allocations on first-line charge to guarantee prompt release of funds.
Calls for state police have intensified amid growing insecurity and demands for decentralised policing across Nigeria.
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