The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has emphasized that collaboration among security agencies is essential for enhancing law enforcement capabilities by utilizing INTERPOL’s tools to promote peace and security across the country.
Speaking at a workshop on the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), themed “Strengthening Internal Security: A Path to a Safer Nigeria,” Gaidam noted that the event, organized by the Ministry of Police Affairs in partnership with the Nigeria Police Force and the National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, would play a crucial role in tackling the nation’s security challenges.
He expressed confidence that the insights and outcomes from the workshop would significantly contribute to addressing the widespread insecurity affecting the country.
According to him, “For decades, our nation has struggled with persistent criminal victimization, posing a serious threat to the safety and well-being of our citizens. In recent years, the challenges of insurgency and terrorism have escalated, taking on increasingly complex international dimensions.”
He stressed that insecurity in Nigeria extends beyond direct criminal activities and requires a strong internal security framework reinforced by advanced international policing strategies. He highlighted the need for security agencies to adapt to technological advancements in tackling modern threats.
“INTERPOL, with its membership of 196 countries, plays a vital role in combating terrorism, organized crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and cybercrime, among other security threats. This workshop aims to explore INTERPOL’s resources, equipping us with the knowledge to integrate these tools into our national, regional, and global security operations,” Gaidam said.
He further stated that adopting security methodologies similar to INTERPOL’s approach would help Nigeria effectively address its internal security challenges.
Highlighting recent achievements of the Ministry of Police Affairs, Gaidam mentioned the establishment of a National Criminal Data Fusion Center (NCDFC) for the Nigeria Police Force, the provision of 24/7 internet service for the West Africa Police Information System (WAPIS), the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with INTERPOL, the automation of Police Specialized Services, and the deployment of WAPIS terminals, granting security agencies access to critical intelligence. Additionally, a legal framework has been adopted for the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) to enhance cooperation among law enforcement agencies.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, Major General Olatokunbo Bello acknowledged the growing security concerns in Nigeria. He noted that the workshop provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas, collaborate, and enhance INTERPOL activities to address security challenges effectively.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), pointed out that security threats in the 21st century have evolved beyond traditional factors. He emphasized that the workshop, driven by INTERPOL and the National Bureau (NCB) Abuja, would be instrumental in improving intelligence gathering, investigations, and the collection of electronic evidence on transnational organized crime and corruption.
CREDIT: DAILY POST