Tinubu seeks collaboration among security agencies to combat crime

President Bola Tinubu has sought collaboration among security agencies in the country in tackling the challenge of banditry; kidnapping; armed robbery, among other forms of criminality.

Tinubu said this at the opening ceremony of the Conference and Retreat For Senior Police Officers, the fifth edition, held in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

President Tinubu represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, noted that security is a shared responsibility, hence the need for all sisters’ security agencies to work with the Nigeria Police Force in protecting the sanctity of the country.

The theme of the Conference and Retreat is “Improving Nigeria’s Internal Security And Economic Prosperity Through Inclusive Policing.”

The President hinted that internal security is fundamental towards creating an environment where businesses and investment flourish.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the administration towards enhancing the institutional capacity of Nigeria’s Police Force, ensuring it is more effective, and well-positioned to fulfill its constitutional mandates, as the lead agency in internal security.

“The President is aware of the challenges Nigerians are facing, but be rest assured, Nigeria shall prosper once again.

“Internal security is fundamental towards creating an environment where businesses and investment flourish. Recognizing this, our administration, prioritises our security agencies under operational capability, ensuring that they are well-equipped to confront emergencies and effectively combat crime.

“I reaffirmed our administration’s commitment to enhancing the institutional capacity of Nigeria’s Police Force ensuring it is more effective and well-positioned to fulfill its constitutional mandates, as the lead agency in internal security.

“Our policy includes training and retraining a competent workforce while fostering a positive and supportive work environment.

“We are working to bridge the existing security infrastructure and equipment gaps through comprehensive and sustainable programmes, that includes, renovating Police barracks, including mobility and upgrading essential combats and protective gears,” he added.

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, in his welcome address, said the annual conference and retreat for senior police officers has remained a platform for assessing administrative and operational strategies, exchanging insights, and realigning policing objectives with the evolving global security landscape in Nigeria.

The IGP added that each edition of the conference has offered valuable insights that have shaped contemporary policing in Nigeria, promoting innovation, collaboration, and best practices.

“This theme naturally flows from our last conference. While we previously focused on the broader integration of security mechanisms into national development, we now emphasize the critical aspect of inclusive policing: Highlighting the imperativeness of an all-society policing approach to addressing current security challenges and enhancing economic prosperity.

“This year’s theme captures the essence of our strategic direction. It mirrors President Bola Amend Tinubu’s security vision and underscores our determination to cultivate a police force that is professionally competent, intelligence-driven, and equipped to confront emerging threats proactively.

“Our nation continues to confront complex threats, including violent crimes, cyber-related offenses, terrorism, and transnational organized crimes. To effectively address these challenges, intelligence-led policing must remain at the core of our operations. We are therefore committed to deepening strategic partnerships with both domestic and international security agencies while enhancing community engagement to bolster public trust and promote active citizen participation in policing”, the IGP said

Egbetokun, however, disclosed that as a result of the growing threat of cybercrime, police under his leadership have strengthened the Nigeria Police Force National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF-NCCC), complemented by the Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Unit.

He urged participants at the retreat to contribute meaningfully towards developing innovative and actionable strategies that will shape the future of policing in Nigeria.

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, commended the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for its commitment to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians.

He explained that his administration would continue to assist all security agencies in security a peaceful State.