Nigerian police reform: 5 key measures and why civil society is key to achieving them

Throughout October Nigeria has been rocked by protests. Despite ongoing contestation around western policing in recent years, evidence on police reform from western contexts provides useful pointers. Five measures in particular can play a crucial role in reducing police violence. Donors should also consider supporting Nigeria’s civil society organizations to seize the moment. Reform is too important to leave in the hands of state elites. Indeed, successful democratic reform requires an ongoing dialogue with civil society.