Dickson Advocates Phased Police Reforms, Strengthening Of Nigeria's Security Architecture
Dickson Advocates Phased Police Reforms, Strengthening of Nigeria's Security Architecture
Former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has called for comprehensive reforms of Nigeria's policing system, stressing that strengthening the Nigeria Police Force remains critical to addressing the country's security challenges.
Dickson made the call while co-chairing the 6th Anniversary Public Lecture of the First Daily National Dialogue on Security, where he emphasized the need for a strategic and gradual approach to the ongoing debate on state policing in Nigeria.
The lawmaker congratulated the Publisher of First Daily Nigeria, Dr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, whom he described as his former Commissioner for Information, for organizing what he called a timely and impactful national dialogue on security.
According to him, the event attracted an impressive array of participants, including two former Chiefs of Defence Staff, a former Inspector-General of Police, representatives of various security agencies, state governors, and other distinguished guests.
Dickson also commended Bayelsa leaders who attended the event, urging political leaders and stakeholders to cultivate a culture of supporting one another instead of engaging in actions that undermine collective progress.
Speaking on the theme of national security, the senator argued that priority should be given to strengthening the Nigeria Police Force, noting that the police remain the frontline institution in safeguarding lives and property across the country.
He reiterated his long-held position on the establishment of state police, saying that while he supports the devolution of policing powers as a committed federalist, the process must be implemented cautiously and systematically.
Dickson proposed that policing powers should first be devolved to the zonal level before extending such responsibilities to local governments after the completion of local government reforms, with state governments coordinating local policing operations.
He maintained that such a phased approach would ensure effective implementation while preserving national stability and institutional capacity.
The senator expressed appreciation to all participants for their insightful contributions toward finding practical and lasting solutions to Nigeria's security challenges. He also thanked the convener, Dr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, and the First Daily Nigeria team for sustaining the annual dialogue and wished them continued success in promoting national conversations on security.
