Opinion

ALL-INCLUSIVE POLICING, INTERNAL SECURITY, AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT; IGP EGBETOKUN’S PERSPECTIVE.

Published

2 months ago

March 5, 2025

In a world where security threats are constantly evolving and societal complexities continue to rise, the demand for innovative and inclusive policing strategies has never been more urgent. National security challenges, social disruptions, and other multi-facetted hindrances in Nigeria require solutions that are both proactive and transformative.

In the field of political science, peace and security studies, and humanitarian studies, scholars have alluded to the nexus between these key concepts and national development in all areas, particularly economic growth. In the words of Ban Ki-Moon, former Secretary General of the UN, “Security and Development are two sides of the same coin. Economic stability fosters peace, and National Security creates the environment for economic prosperity.”

John F. kennedy also posited that “Economic strength and National security are inextricably linked; one cannot thrive without the other.”

Recognizing this need, the Nigeria Police Force, the lead security agency constitutionally saddled with the responsibility of maintaining the internal security of the country, is championing an all-inclusive policing approach that prioritizes full community engagement, inter-agency collaboration, and advanced technology utilization, to promote sectoral equilibrium in effective policing. This aligns seamlessly with the leadership vision of the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, who is committed to building a professional, service-driven, rule-of-law-compliant, and people-friendly police force in Nigeria. IGP Egbetokun doesn’t not limit his vision for all-inclusive policing to Nigeria alone. He has also extended same vision to the west African sub-region and African continent in his capacity as the Chairman of the West African Police Chiefs Committee (WAPCCO). His aim is to ensure that policing not only reinforces internal security but also contributes to national economic recovery, social cohesion, and political stability in line with the renewed hope agenda of the present administration in Nigeria.

Under IGP Egbetokun’s strategic leadership, the Nigeria Police Force has embarked on several bold policy initiatives aimed at strengthening internal security and accelerating national development. It is crystal clear that Nigeria Police efforts in managing herders/famers crises, communal disputes, settling labour disputes across all strata, and promoting social norms and values in Nigeria are far reaching and paying off, in the security architecture and economic growth in Nigeria.

In addition, the individual and institutional capability building strategies of the police force have occasioned a paradigm shift towards enhanced policing via training and retraining of officers in areas of professional conduct and science-driven policing.

One wonders how the IGP has continually snowballed his ideas in this regard to hosting conference and retreat for strategic managers and leadership of the Force, and refresher courses for other senior officers and rank and files, respectively to improve their effectiveness and efficiency in all areas of Policing. These efforts built upon the mindset of the IGP to host the 4th Annual Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers which held in Imo State in October 2023 with the theme; Fostering economic prosperity, social integration, and political development through enhanced internal security mechanisms. Continuing this trajectory, the IGP recently hosted the 5th Annual Conference and Retreat for senior Police Officer, held from February 24th to 26th, 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with the theme; Improving Nigeria’s Internal Security and Economic Prosperity through Inclusive Policing

This landmark event, CARSPO 2025, brought together over 170 high-ranking security professionals, including senior Police Officers from the rank of Commissioner of Police and above, representatives from sister security agencies and distinguished international guests, such as CG Felix Namuhoranye of the Rwanda National Police and IGP Douglas Kanja Kirocho of the Kenyan Police. Over the course of three days, participants engaged in intensive deliberations on pressing issues in modern policing, intelligence sharing, and capacity building for law enforcement agencies. The conference culminated in a series of actionable resolutions designed to enhance the effectiveness and professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force. Some of the key takeaways include strengthening international collaboration with our counterparts from other African countries to combat cross-border crimes; implementing a comprehensive mental health policy backed by research to support officers facing psychological challenges; revamping the Counseling Unit with qualified professionals to address mental health concerns within the force; expanding inclusive recruitment and training programs to ensure a more diverse and well-equipped police force; introducing flexible policy reforms that adapt to emerging security challenges; establishing anti-crime clubs in schools to foster early crime prevention and youth engagement; encouraging officers to embrace risk management strategies that promote safety and resilience in policing; and enhancing specialization and professional development through continuous training tailored to modern security demands.

At the conclusion of the conference, IGP Egbetokun presented certificates of attendance to all participants, including guest speaker CG Felix Namuhoranye of the Rwanda National Police, in recognition of their contributions to the success of the event. IGP Adeolu Egbetokun Ph.D.,NPM reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s firm commitment to leveraging inclusive policing, cutting-edge technology, and international partnerships to improve Nigeria’s internal security and economic well-being. The resolutions adopted at the conference will serve as a roadmap for strengthening law enforcement, fostering public trust, and creating a safer Nigeria.

As the Nigeria Police Force continues to refine and implement forward-thinking policing strategies, Nigeria can look ahead to a future where security is not just a government responsibility but a collective effort that bridges the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Through innovative policies, strategic collaborations, and a commitment to professionalism, the Nigeria Police Force is poised to reshape the country’s security landscape and drive sustainable national development.

The regime of IGP Egbetokun marks the first to have foreign IGPs and security diplomats across the world attend and participate fully in the conference and retreat and engagements of the Nigeria Police Force.His determination in bringing global collaboration, integration, and togetherness in fostering improved security in Nigeria and the African continent as a whole can never be overemphasized. The saying, “putting the right peg in the right hole” is ascertained by the appointment of IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, a scholar, philosopher, perfectionist and holder of a Ph.D in Peace and Security Studies, a great blessing to policing structure and national values in Nigeria.

Prince Muyiwa Adejobi, a Public Relations and law enforcement experts, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria

Princemoye@gmail.com

5th March, 2025.

Opinion

Nigeria’s Youth at the Crossroads: Energy Wasted or Potential Ignited?

Published

2 weeks ago

April 11, 2025

Salihu Mohammed

By Engr Ikenna Okonkwo FNSE, FNIEE, FNIMMME

As Nigeria battles rising insecurity, unemployment, and a worrying surge in criminal activities, the critical question remains: how can we better engage the nation’s youth to steer them away from dangerous paths and towards meaningful, productive lives?

This question hit home during a routine drive along the busy Kubwa Expressway in Abuja, a route I traverse almost daily.

Amid the hum of traffic and the bustle of construction around the Katampe axis, where a new flyover is taking shape, a striking scene unfolds.

Groups of able young men and women, many of whom appear to be graduates from their posture and bearing, spend their days idling by the roadside, brimming with energy yet starved of opportunity.

These youths are not engaged in crime, nor are they part of the troubling narratives of kidnapping, cyber fraud, or other vices that often dominate headlines. Yet, society seems to turn a blind eye to their plight.

The irony is glaring. While we urge young Nigerians to shun criminal activities and embrace lawful means of livelihood, we do little to create spaces for them to thrive.

The question, then, demands urgent attention: are we, as a nation, encouraging or discouraging the youth who choose to stay away from vices?

The visible frustration among these young Nigerians points to a deeper failure of policy and support structures.

Their restless energy, if properly harnessed, could become a formidable force for national development rather than a brewing storm of disillusionment.

As leaders and policymakers commendably push infrastructure development projects like the ongoing works at Katampe, equal urgency must be placed on developing human capital.

Our young people need more than roads and flyovers; they need avenues for skills acquisition, entrepreneurship support, and meaningful employment.

The conversation must shift from simply condemning youth involvement in crime to actively providing alternatives that are accessible and attractive.

If we do not engage their potential, we risk losing an entire generation to despair.

Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment. The future of our nation hinges on how we treat our youth today.

The energy of our young men and women should not be wasted by the roadside but channeled into building the prosperous Nigeria we all desire.

Engr Ikenna Okonkwo FNSE, FNIEE, FNIMMME is a Public Affairs Analyst, marriage counselor and writer.

Opinion

Abuja Is Boiling, And We Are Still Silent

Published

2 weeks ago

April 8, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Abdulkareem Adeyemi

On the morning of April 7, 2025, the capital city of Nigeria stirred not just with the sounds of routine bustle, but with voices—peaceful yet piercing—chanting for change.

Members of the Take It Back Movement, a growing coalition of young Nigerians disillusioned by economic hardships and political frustration, gathered for what was meant to be a peaceful protest. They carried placards, banners, and, most of all, hope.

But by midday, the scene at the Unity Fountain had turned into a haze of tear gas, chaos, and confusion.

Their chants were swallowed by the shriek of sirens and the urgency of feet scattering for safety.

This was not just a protest; it was a cry—one that echoed through the hearts of many Nigerians who feel they are running out of options and opportunities. But the question remains: why did a peaceful call for attention result in a forceful shutdown?

According to statements from law enforcement, the protest was “ill-timed.” Coincidentally, April 7 marked the National Police Day celebration—a day dedicated to honoring the efforts and sacrifices of the Nigeria Police Force.

However, for the citizens gathered, their presence was no less about duty. It was about responsibility: to speak, to question, and to demand better.

Critics have since raised concerns: was the issue truly about timing, or was it another instance of shrinking democratic space in a country where protest is fast becoming perilous?

The heart of the protest was not just about political rhetoric. It was about food prices, rent, job scarcity, and the suffocating cost of living in a country where the minimum wage barely covers a week’s worth of groceries.

Young professionals, artisans, graduates, and civil servants are increasingly unable to maintain even the most basic standard of living.

A bag of rice that cost ₦8,000 three years ago now sells for over ₦50,000.

Power supply remains erratic, insecurity festers in rural and urban areas alike, and yet, the elite continue to thrive untouched, their lives unfolding in opulence just a few kilometers from struggling communities.

To protest this reality is not a crime—it is a civic duty. Silence in the face of such hardship is complicity. If we continue to stifle these voices, we risk not just the loss of protest, but the loss of hope itself.

Opinion

Hidden Football Rules Fans and Players Often Overlook

Published

1 month ago

March 13, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Ifeoluwa Odunayo

Football, the world’s most popular sport, operates under a complex rulebook that extends beyond goals, offside calls, and fouls.

While millions of fans passionately debate refereeing decisions, certain lesser-known rules continue to surprise even seasoned supporters and professional players.

A recent incident involving Julián Álvarez in the UEFA Champions League highlighted the importance of understanding these intricate regulations.

Here are some lesser-known rules that often go unnoticed:

Double Touch on a Penalty Kick

A player taking a penalty cannot touch the ball twice before another player makes contact.

If the taker accidentally hits the ball onto their standing foot before scoring, the goal is disallowed. This exact scenario cost Julián Álvarez a crucial penalty.

Dropped Ball Must Be Uncontested

In the past, dropped ball situations were often fiercely contested. However, under revised laws, referees now return possession to the team that last controlled the ball before play was stopped, ensuring a fair and conflict-free restart.

Offside from a Goal Kick

Unlike standard offside rules, a player receiving the ball directly from a goal kick cannot be penalized for offside, regardless of their positioning. This exemption also applies to throw-ins and corner kicks.

Penalty Kick Must Move Forward

A penalty kick must travel forward upon being struck. If the ball is played backward—intentionally or by mistake—the kick is immediately ruled invalid, and the opposing team is awarded an indirect free kick.

Deliberate Handball to Pass to the Goalkeeper

A player cannot deliberately pass the ball to their goalkeeper using their hands, even from a legal situation such as a throw-in.

If the keeper picks up a thrown-in ball from a teammate, the opposing team is awarded an indirect free kick.

While these rules may not come into play often, their enforcement can instantly alter the course of a match.

As seen with Álvarez’s penalty blunder, understanding even the most obscure regulations can mean the difference between victory and heartbreak.