Nigeria Seeks EU Partnership to Advance Police Reforms

Nigeria’s Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, has called for the European Union’s (EU) support in implementing comprehensive police reforms aimed at enhancing professionalism, accountability, and community engagement within the Nigerian Police Force.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by an EU delegation led by Ambassador Gautier Mignot to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, Gaidam emphasized the federal government’s commitment to establishing a more responsive and effective police service.

He highlighted the EU’s expertise and resources in police reform and governance, stating that collaboration could significantly contribute to Nigeria’s ongoing efforts.

“Your Excellency, I would like to brief you on the ongoing Nigerian Police reform exercise, which is being overseen by the Ministry of Police Affairs. This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness, accountability, and community engagement of the Nigerian Police Force,” Gaidam stated.

Key areas of focus in the reform initiative include improved police training, better resource allocation, and the implementation of stronger oversight mechanisms to ensure transparency and public trust.

Gaidam also acknowledged the EU’s role in regional security initiatives, particularly the West Africa Police Information System (WAPIS)—a program supported by INTERPOL that enables law enforcement agencies across West Africa to share critical police data electronically.

“By improving coordination, WAPIS has played a vital role in combating transnational crimes such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and terrorism threats that continue to challenge our national security,” he said.

He further noted that the EU and ECOWAS remain committed to fully implementing WAPIS across all ECOWAS member states and Mauritania, with funding secured from November 2017 through May 2025. However, he stressed the importance of securing ongoing EU financial support to sustain and expand the system’s impact.

“Additional technical assistance and capacity-building support will further enhance Nigeria’s law enforcement capabilities and ensure that we maximize the impact of this crucial initiative,” Gaidam added.

On his part, Ambassador Gautier Mignot reaffirmed the EU’s strong partnership with Nigeria’s Ministry of Police Affairs, emphasizing that their cooperation is based on shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

He stated that security and stability in Nigeria and the wider ECOWAS region remain a priority for the EU, particularly in addressing issues such as criminal justice reform, gender-based violence, and human trafficking.

“Migration issues, we are addressing challenges we are facing worldwide with very powerful criminal networks. It is essential to work hand in hand to dismantle these networks and protect the victims,” Ambassador Mignot remarked.

The meeting reinforced the mutual commitment of both parties to strengthening Nigeria’s law enforcement framework through strategic reforms and international cooperation.