Former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has cautioned that the creation of state police alone will not resolve Nigeria’s growing insecurity, urging the country to undertake comprehensive restructuring to address the root causes of its challenges.
Ezekwesili made the remark while speaking on the need for far-reaching governance reforms, stressing that insecurity is a symptom of deeper structural problems within the Nigerian federation.
According to her, while state policing may contribute to improved security management, it cannot deliver lasting results without broader constitutional and institutional reforms that decentralise governance and empower sub-national governments.
She argued that Nigeria’s current governance structure has become overstretched and ineffective in responding to the diverse needs and security realities of different regions of the country.
The former minister noted that a truly effective solution requires a restructuring process that would grant states greater autonomy over critical sectors, including security, economic development, and resource management.
Ezekwesili maintained that the country must move beyond temporary measures and embrace reforms that address the underlying issues fueling insecurity, unemployment, poverty, and weak public service delivery.
She also emphasised the importance of accountable leadership, citizen participation, and strong institutions in building a safer and more prosperous nation.
According to her, sustainable security can only be achieved when governance structures are designed to respond effectively to local realities and when communities are actively involved in decision-making processes.
The former minister called on political leaders, policymakers, and citizens to engage in meaningful dialogue on the future of Nigeria, insisting that comprehensive restructuring remains essential for national stability, development, and unity.
Her comments come amid ongoing national debates on constitutional reform, state policing, and strategies to tackle insecurity across various parts of the country.