ABUJA, Nigeria – In a significant move to strengthen Nigeria’s law enforcement capabilities, President Bola Tinubu pledged on Wednesday to enhance the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) with additional weapons and personnel.
Speaking through the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bossun Tijani, during the inauguration of the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre in Abuja, Tinubu highlighted the need for a unified approach in combating rising security threats.
Addressing attendees at the event, Tinubu stressed the importance of overcoming inter-agency rivalries among law enforcement bodies. “The security situation in the country is a complex blend of threats posed by well-organised non-state actors,” he said.
“Addressing it requires a concerted approach by all stakeholders within the security architecture. I, therefore, call for the elimination of inter-agency rivalries and urge law enforcement agencies to embrace a coordinated, collaborative approach.”
The President’s remarks underscored his administration’s commitment to reforming the Nigerian Police Force. He announced plans to procure additional arms and equipment, enhance recruitment, and provide ongoing training to police personnel.
“In line with our policy objective of reforming the Nigerian Police Force, we are committed to investing further in the Nigeria Police Force through procurement of sufficient arms and other critical equipment, as well as recruitment and continuous training to boost the number, quality, and preparedness of our police personnel,” Tinubu stated.
Cybercrime, a growing concern in Nigeria, was a focal point of Tinubu’s address. The President acknowledged the rising threats posed by cybercriminals, including online financial fraudsters and cyber-terrorists.
He noted that cybercrime represents a new frontier in criminal activity, requiring specialized strategies and resources to combat effectively.
“This administration remains resolute in the fight against all forms of criminality. As an emerging and rapidly evolving category of offence, cybercrimes are a new frontier in that battle,” Tinubu declared.
“We are witnessing a rise in threats posed by cybercriminals, online financial fraudsters, and cyber-terrorists who use the Internet to coordinate and carry out their destabilising and nefarious activities.”
The inauguration of the National Cybercrime Centre marks a critical step in addressing the challenges posed by cyber threats.
The Centre aims to enhance the capabilities of Nigerian law enforcement agencies in tackling online crime, fostering greater collaboration between different security agencies, and leveraging advanced technologies to combat digital threats.
Tinubu’s pledge to strengthen the Nigeria Police Force comes amidst increasing concerns about the effectiveness of the country’s security apparatus.
By focusing on both traditional and emerging threats, his administration seeks to bolster Nigeria’s overall security framework and address the multifaceted nature of crime in the country.
As Nigeria navigates these complex security challenges, the President’s commitment to equipping and reforming the police force reflects a broader strategy to enhance national security and ensure a safer environment for all citizens.
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