The Nigerian Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima today advocated for increased involvement in local policing, comprehensive police reform, and the establishment of better Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for security forces.
Shettima revealed this at the ongoing North West Security and Peace Summit in Katsina.
The astute politician emphasised the need for enhanced collaboration among all security agencies to effectively capture those who undermine the sovereignty of Nigeria, while assuring Nigerians of improved security across the country, particularly in the North West, noting that if Nigeria fails in security, Africa fails.
Speaking earlier, according to a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the nation’s Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, reiterated his belief in community policing as the major solution to the insecurity in Nigeria against the state police being advocated for the Southern part of Nigeria.
Egbetokun emphasised the importance of community policing initiatives that have fostered trust and cooperation between the police and local communities, leading to improved intelligence gathering and proactive interventions.
He highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Nigeria Police Force in maintaining law and order across the North West, stressing the intensified operations against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism, noting the bravery and professionalism of police officers in the region.
The statement added that the summit also served as a platform to showcase the successful joint operations between the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian military, such as Operation Puff Adder, Operation Hadarin Daji, and others, which have been crucial in disrupting criminal activities, dismantling bandit camps, and rescuing kidnapped victims, thereby enhancing the overall security of the region.
“Despite these successes, the IGP acknowledged the challenges that persist, including the vast and difficult terrain, limited resources, and the evolving tactics of criminal elements. He called for a holistic approach to security, inspired by the United Nations’ New Security Agenda, which emphasizes strengthening institutions, engaging communities, respecting human rights, and fostering regional cooperation”, the statement added.
According to the IGP, “The goal is to formulate strategies that will ensure the general security, safety, and well-being of the citizens and residents in the North West region. The IGP believes that the outcomes of these deliberations will pave the way for enhanced security measures and a more peaceful and prosperous North West region.”
In attendance were former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ambassador Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, and former Governor of Katsina State, Bello Masari.
