Nigerian govt aiming for world-class, community-based police force, says Minister

The Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to establishing a world-class police force that is inclusive, intelligence-led, technology-driven, and community-based.

According to her, the vision aligns with the government’s dedication to ensuring that the Nigeria Police Force fully meets its constitutional responsibilities.

Speaking at the “Renewed Hope Police Agenda: Citizens Town Hall Engagement on Strengthening Community Policing in Nigeria,” held at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, Abia State, the Minister highlighted the administration’s focus on deep reforms.

She stressed that the reforms would be supported by a robust implementation plan and innovative resource mobilization, addressing the challenges that have hindered previous reform efforts.

Hajia Sulaiman-Ibrahim reiterated the importance of recognizing that security is inherently local, and as such, the approach to policing must reflect an understanding of each community’s unique characteristics, challenges, and strengths.

She noted that nationwide town hall engagements are essential in fostering grassroots understanding of security dynamics and promoting community-specific solutions.

“Security is local, and we must acknowledge and embrace the unique dynamics of each community in our pursuit of a safer nation. Today’s town hall is a reflection of the significant shift in our approach to policing,” she stated.

The Minister also referenced Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, which prioritizes the security and welfare of the people as a fundamental government responsibility.

Focusing on Abia State, the Minister highlighted the state’s economic vibrancy, particularly its commerce and industry, which presents specific security challenges, especially in business-related crimes.

She acknowledged Abia’s strategic location along key transit routes, necessitating robust security measures to address issues like road safety, smuggling, and the protection of critical infrastructure.

Despite the challenges, she praised Abia State’s resilience and expressed the Federal Government’s commitment to further strengthening the state’s security framework.

Hajia Sulaiman-Ibrahim reiterated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made security a central focus of his administration’s eight priorities.

She said the “Renewed Hope Police Agenda” is being implemented to ensure that the police force is strategically positioned to fulfil its mandate effectively.

The Minister outlined six foundational pillars that form the strategic framework for redefining and strengthening the Nigeria Police Force.

The pillars include Technical and Operational Excellence, Infrastructure Advancement, Welfare Enhancement, Policy Framework Development, Re-branding, Strategic Communication, and Public Trust Management.

In his remarks, the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, commended the Ministry for its new approach to security, emphasizing the importance of engaging critical stakeholders and appreciating the role of community leaders in security efforts.

He noted that isolating community leaders from security strategies is outdated and that collaboration with stakeholders presents an opportunity for sharing new knowledge, reviewing existing plans, and developing strategies to combat emerging crimes and criminality in the state.

Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the security of life and property in Abia State.