President Bola Tinubu has said that his administration has put in place measures towards strengthening the nation’s security apparatus to enable it tackle the emerging security challenges confronting the country.
The President stated this while declaring open the 5th edition of the Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers (CARSPO), at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
President Tinubu revealed that, his administration recognises the importance of security in the socio-economic development of a nation and has therefore strengthened its operational capabilities by providing adequate equipment to confront emergencies and effectively combat crime.
The President, represented by his Vice, Senator Kashim Shettima, called on the people to actively collaborate with the police to foster a safer society, adding that policing could not succeed without the cooperation of the people.
“While the Nigeria Police Force is constitutionally empowered to maintain internal security, protect lives and property, and uphold public order, it is essential to recognise that, security is a shared responsibility; communities and citizens must actively collaborate with the police to foster a safer society,’’ he said.
The President maintained that his administration has introduced various reforms aimed at restoring investors’ confidence, stabilising the microeconomic environment, and reducing inflation.
Also speaking, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, described security as the cornerstone of any thriving environment, adding that a secured society is a place where everyone feels safe and protected, adding that inclusive policing was about understanding the unique needs of the people.
Governor Abiodun noted that a policing system that actively synergies with local communities, upholds human rights, and prioritises transparency was essential in combating crime and ensuring lasting peace, noting that the major challenge in security management was the lack of public trust.
He hinted that his administration would provide to the police force electric-powered motorcycles, just as some drones capable of facial recognition and number plates up to 8000 meters would be made available to them.
“As crime becomes more sophisticated, security forces must evolve; they must integrate technology-driven solutions such as surveillance drones for monitoring high-risk vast areas, particularly for timely emergency response.
“We’ve also provided data-driven crime mapping capabilities to predict and prevent criminal activities.
“Digital forensic tools to track cybercrime and financial fraud are things that must be embraced; all these will allow our law enforcement agencies to stay ahead of criminals and enhance national security,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said that, as the country continues to confront complex threats like violent crimes, cyber-related offenses, terrorism, and transnational organised crimes, it is important that intelligence-led policing must remain at the core of its operations.
The IGP also disclosed that the police force was committed to deepening strategic partnerships with both domestic and international security agencies, while enhancing community engagement to foster public trust and promote active citizen participation in policing.
