Nigeria's police chief vows to boost statewide law enforcement presence for citizens' safety

Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu believes that the introduction of State Police will significantly enhance community policing efforts and intelligence gathering capabilities. This initiative is expected to bolster community-based policing and improve the collection of vital information.

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The implementation of State Police, however, will require extensive consultations, comparative studies, and capacity building before it can become fully operational, according to Disu. He noted that the process is still in its early stages, and experience, education, and comparative studies from other jurisdictions are necessary.

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Disu expressed confidence that the establishment of State Police will foster greater collaboration between federal and state security institutions. He emphasized that this development will bring policing closer to the people, as officers will have a deeper understanding of the communities they serve.

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The police chief noted that this approach will evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of an era when community members were familiar with the officers responsible for their safety. Closer community engagement is expected to improve intelligence gathering, public trust, and rapid response to security threats.

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The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to innovation, professionalism, and strategic partnerships to maintain peace, stability, and national development, as reaffirmed by Disu. The proposed State Police Bill aims to transfer policing from the exclusive legislative list to the concurrent legislative list of the Constitution.

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This legislative change will empower state governments to establish, fund, and operate their own police forces, in addition to the Nigeria Police Force, which is currently controlled by the federal government. Disu participated in the UN Chiefs of Police Summit at the UN headquarters, where he highlighted Nigeria's significant contributions to global peace.

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Nigeria's unwavering commitment to UN peacekeeping operations has earned the country a reputation as a dependable contributor, with a record that remains a source of global pride. Disu noted that Nigeria has never failed to fulfill its obligations in UN peacekeeping missions.

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The IGP praised the sacrifices of Nigerian security personnel serving worldwide, acknowledging the country's significant contributions of troops, police officers, and resources. Nigeria has been an active participant in UN peacekeeping operations since 1960, when it first contributed to the mission in Congo.

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Disu recalled that Nigeria has consistently demonstrated its commitment to UN peacekeeping operations, with its personnel serving with distinction in virtually every UN mission. The country has also made enormous sacrifices in the pursuit of global peace, including the loss of many police personnel.

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The police chief emphasized that Nigeria's contributions to UN peacekeeping operations are highly valued, and the country's commitment and sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. Disu reiterated Nigeria's longstanding dedication to supporting UN peacekeeping efforts worldwide.