By Christopher Oji
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun has reaffirmed Nigeria’s strong commitment to dismantling criminal networks by advancing collaborative law enforcement strategies, intelligence sharing, and joint security operations.
The IGP who was at the 13th AFRIPOL Steering Committee Meeting in Algiers, Algeria emphasized the importance of modern technology, integrated communication platforms, and interagency task forces as pivotal to responding to cross-border threats. The IGP also calls for deeper legal harmonization, improved officer training, and enhanced regional interoperability to effectively combat terrorism, cybercrime, trafficking, and organized criminal networks.
He reiterated that the battle against TOC cannot be won in isolation, but through unified purpose, coordinated action, and strategic cooperation.
In a statement by Force Public Relations Officer ( FPRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, he noted that, “ IGP Kayode Egbetokun, is currently in Algiers, Algeria, where he is participating in the 13th Meeting of the AFRIPOL Steering Committee, taking place from July 7 to 8, 2025. The summit gathers Police Chiefs, senior law enforcement executives, and continental security stakeholders to address the growing complexities of terrorism, organized crime and violent extremism across Africa.
“The IGP is attending in his dual capacity as Nigeria’s Chief of Police and the current Chairperson of the West African Police Chiefs Committee (WAPCCO), reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership in continental security cooperation and regional threat mitigation.
” The two-day session features critical briefings, including a report on the current situation of Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) across the continent; updates on the deployment and operationalization of the AFSECOM communication system, and progress on the development of AFRIPOL’s strategies on Counter-Terrorism (CT) and TOC. It also covers presentations on the ongoing AFRIPOL reform process, including engagements with AU policy organs and member states, and outlines preparations for the upcoming 14th Steering Committee Meeting and 5th AFRIPOL General Assembly.
“ Amongst the attendees at the meeting are the Algerian Director-General of National Security, Ali Badaoui; members of the Central African Police Chiefs Committee (CAPCCO); members of the Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation (EAPCCO) and other regional police organizations as well as other Chiefs of Police.
” The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to supporting AFRIPOL’s mission and will continue to work with regional and international partners to promote peace, safety, and a secure Africa. The IGP restates the Force’s resolve to actively contribute to multilateral efforts aimed at safeguarding communities and reinforcing Africa’s collective security infrastructure.”