The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated yesterday that adopting decentralised policing is now essential to effectively tackle Nigeria’s changing security challenges.
He said President Bola Tinubu was determined to see the reform become a reality once the necessary legal framework was secured.
Idris said this during an audience with the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC), led by its Chairman, Major General Chris Olukolade (Rtd), at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
“It is the desire of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that we have State Police as soon as it is practicable in this country. The time has indeed come for that,” said Idris, noting that the President has urged the National Assembly to put the appropriate legislation in place.
The Minister explained that strengthening the country’s internal security structure must go alongside enhanced national communication systems, particularly at a time when rapid spread of information also shape events.
“In today’s digital age, crises are no longer only defined by events, but also by how information spreads as fast as it does. Digital innovation is therefore central to timely, accurate and coordinated communication, especially during moments of national importance,” he said.
The minister welcomed the centre’s proposals, including the establishment of a National Crisis Communication Hub and a Crisis Communication Performance Index.
He described them as initiatives that align closely with the ministry’s core mandate, assuring the delegation that the report of the November 2025 National Symposium on Digital Innovation and Crisis Communication would be studied, and recommendatioms that complement ongoing reforms by the government explored.
Earlier, Major General Olukolade (rtd) appreciated the minister for his support and encouragement toward advancing crisis communication reforms in Nigeria.
“Your gesture added so much weight and the necessary authority and integrity to a gathering that brought together spokespersons, technology experts, security personnel, scholars and media professionals from across the country,” he said, referring to last year’s National Symposium.
About the Author
