The Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, and the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, today 24th June, 2024, attended the North West Security and Peace Summit in Katsina. The critical summit brought together key stakeholders from the region, including Governors, traditional rulers, military officials, community leaders, and security experts, to address and deliberate on pressing safety issues for the security of lives and livelihood in the region. Other notable attendees include former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Sultan of Sokoto, the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and former Governor of Katsina State, Bello Masari.
In his message, the Inspector General of Police highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Nigeria Police Force in maintaining law and order across the North West. He emphasized the intensified operations against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism, noting the bravery and professionalism of police officers in the region. The IGP also emphasized 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.
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.
Vice President Shettima, in his remarks, advocated for increased involvement in local policing, comprehensive police reform, and the establishment of better Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for security forces. He emphasized 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.
The Inspector General of Police reiterated that the ongoing summit provides a critical opportunity for all participants to engage in comprehensive discussions on topical security and safety issues. 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.