The Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to creating a more responsive and professional police service in Nigeria.
Gaidam stated that key areas of focus include improved training, better resource allocation, and the establishment of robust oversight mechanisms to enhance transparency and public trust.He spoke during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the European Union Embassy, led by Ambassador Gautier Mignot, to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Gaidam said, “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. The government is committed to having a professional and responsive police force.
“Our key areas of focus include improved training, better resource allocation, and the establishment of stronger oversight mechanisms to ensure transparency and public trust.”The minister, however, sought the partnership and support of the EU to actualize the police reforms being pursued by the government.He noted that the EU’s expertise, resources, and experience in police reform and governance could significantly contribute to Nigeria’s efforts.
Gaidam recalled that the EU has been at the forefront of supporting regional security initiatives, including the West Africa Police Information System.
“This initiative, supported by INTERPOL, has significantly enhanced the ability of law enforcement agencies across West Africa to share critical police information 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 noted that the EU and ECOWAS remain committed to ensuring the full rollout of WAPIS across all ECOWAS countries and Mauritania. Given Nigeria’s prevailing security challenges and those in the broader West African region, he emphasized the need to secure continuous EU funding for the full implementation and sustainability of the WAPIS system.“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 stated.
Earlier, EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, reaffirmed the EU’s strong partnership with the Ministry of Police Affairs, emphasizing shared values such as the rule of law, human rights, and democracy. He noted that the police play a crucial role in upholding these values.He added that stability and security in Nigeria and the ECOWAS region are of significant interest to the EU, particularly in light of evolving global security challenges. He also highlighted the importance of reforming the criminal justice system, addressing gender-based violence, and combating human trafficking.
On migration issues, Mignot stressed the need for collaborative efforts to dismantle powerful criminal networks operating worldwide and protect victims.“This is why it is crucial that we work hand in hand to fight these networks, dismantle them, and protect the victims,” he stated.
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