INTERPOL’s Tools Strengthen Nigeria’s Security Framework – Minister Gaidam

The Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has emphasized the importance of security agency collaboration in enhancing law enforcement capabilities through INTERPOL’s advanced policing tools. He stated that leveraging these resources is essential for fostering peace and security across Nigeria.

Speaking at a workshop themed “Strengthening Internal Security: A Path to a Safer Nigeria,” organized by the Ministry of Police Affairs in partnership with the Nigeria Police Force and the National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, Gaidam highlighted the urgent need to address Nigeria’s security challenges.

He acknowledged the persistent issue of criminal victimization and the rising threats of insurgency and terrorism, which have become increasingly complex with international dimensions. According to him, strengthening internal security requires adopting global best practices and deploying advanced policing tools to counter emerging threats.

“INTERPOL is a globally recognized organization with 196 member countries actively combating terrorism, organized crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and cybercrime,” Gaidam stated. He stressed the importance of integrating INTERPOL’s resources into Nigeria’s security framework to enhance intelligence gathering, crime investigation, and transnational law enforcement cooperation.

Highlighting recent achievements, the Minister noted the establishment of the National Criminal Data Fusion Center (NCDFC) for the Nigeria Police Force, improved internet connectivity for the West Africa Police Information System (WAPIS), and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with INTERPOL. He also mentioned the automation of police specialized services, the provision of WAPIS terminals for security agencies, and the adoption of a legal framework for WAPIS operations.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, represented by Major General Olatokunbo Bello, commended the workshop’s initiative, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in tackling Nigeria’s security challenges. Similarly, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), stressed that modern security threats extend beyond conventional factors, requiring a proactive and intelligence-driven approach.

Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Patrick Daaor, reiterated the necessity of continuous engagement between law enforcement agencies to combat crime effectively. He also emphasized the role of community policing in fostering trust between security forces and the public.

The workshop provided a platform for security stakeholders to exchange ideas, explore INTERPOL’s resources, and develop strategies to improve Nigeria’s internal security framework.