By Erewunmi Peace

Security experts, academics, and policy stakeholders have called for urgent reforms to Nigeria’s policing system during a roundtable discussion held at the University of Ibadan (UI).

The participants warned that the country could face worsening security challenges if comprehensive reforms are not implemented promptly.

During the discussions, several speakers advocated for the establishment of state policing structures and stronger community-based security systems to improve local response to crime and insecurity.

The experts argued that the current centralized policing model is overstretched and requires restructuring to meet the growing security demands across the country.

They also emphasized the need for improved intelligence gathering, enhanced cooperation between federal and state authorities, and constitutional reforms to strengthen internal security management.

According to participants, empowering states and communities to play more active roles in policing could improve response times and help address local security concerns more effectively.

The roundtable forms part of ongoing national conversations on security reform amid rising concerns over banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and other criminal activities in different parts of Nigeria.

Stakeholders at the event urged policymakers to prioritize practical reforms capable of improving public safety and restoring confidence in the nation’s security system.