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President Bola Tinubu has called for enhanced collaboration among the country's security agencies to more effectively tackle crime.
Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, made this statement during the opening ceremony of the 2025 conference and retreat for senior police officials, held in Abeokuta on Monday.
The theme of the program is “Improving Nigeria’s Internal Security and Economic Prosperity through Inclusive Policing.” The president emphasized that cooperation among all security agencies is crucial for eradicating banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, and various other criminal activities.
He stated that internal security is essential for creating an environment conducive to business and investment opportunities.
He further indicated that his administration has placed a high priority on enhancing the operational capabilities of security agencies, ensuring they are adequately equipped to handle emergencies and effectively address crime.
The president highlighted that the theme of the conference aligns perfectly with his administration's core objectives.
“We are dedicated to promoting economic growth by harnessing the abundant potential of our human and natural resources. However, this vision is unattainable without a stable internal security framework across states through cooperation.
"I reaffirm our administration's commitment to improving the functional capacity of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), ensuring it is more effective and well-prepared to meet its constitutional responsibilities,” he remarked.
Tinubu pointed out that the current administration is actively working to address gaps in security infrastructure and equipment with comprehensive and sustainable initiatives.
“These initiatives include renovating police barracks, improving mobility, and upgrading critical combat and protective gear. These ongoing efforts, in conjunction with state governments' contributions, will undoubtedly boost confidence and reposition the Nigeria Police Force,” he added.
The president mentioned the implementation of a new minimum wage, among other measures, aimed at enhancing the welfare of Nigerian workers, including police officers.
“We will continue to work with police leadership to offer financial incentives that motivate officers and all security personnel to perform at their highest capabilities,” he stated.
Tinubu clarified that his administration is steadfast in supporting the NPF in fulfilling its vital role of ensuring Nigeria's safety and unity.
In his remarks, Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Kayode Egbetokun, indicated that the conference provides an important platform for evaluating police administrative and operational strategies.
Egbetokun elaborated that it also serves as a venue for exchanging ideas and realigning policing goals with the nation’s changing global security context.
“Building on the successes of past conferences, we have implemented major reforms in investigative protocols, emphasizing forensic analysis, digital case management, and enhanced judicial collaboration. The reorganization of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) and other specialized units has been prioritized, ensuring that our detectives operate according to globally accepted best practices.
“Moving forward, all commands and formations have been instructed to execute a comprehensive action plan aimed at reducing crime rates by 50 percent in 2025,” he said.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun praised the leadership of the NPF for its dedication to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians.
Abiodun reaffirmed that his administration will continue to support all security agencies in ensuring a peaceful state.
