From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam has sought the partnership and support of the European Union actualizing police reforms in tandem with the efforts of the Federal Government creating a more responsive and professional police service in Nigeria.
A release signed by Bolaji Oladimeji Kazeem, Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations Unit of the Ministry of Police Affairs, said Gaidam disclosed this during a courtesy visit of the European Union Embassy delegation led by the Ambassador, Gautier Mignot to the Headquarters of the Ministry.
The Minister said the expertise, resources, and experience in police reform and governance could significantly contribute to the efforts of the Nigerian government in that direction.
“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 areas of focus include improved training, better resource allocation, and the establishment of more robust oversight mechanisms to ensure transparency and public trust.”
Gaidam recalled that European Union has been at the forefront of supporting regional security initiatives, including the West Africa Police Information System (WAPIS).
“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.
The Minister highlighting the prevailing security challenges in Nigeria and the broader West African region added it was imperative they work towards securing 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 noted.
The European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Mignot had earlier said the Ministry of Police Affairs was one of the Ministries they reach out to and one of their main partners.
The Ambassador added that the cooperation was base on share values and interests, respect for rule of law, human rights and democracy which he noted the police is the core of the expression of these values.
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