Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has called for decentralization of the Police Force and immediate implementation of community policing nationwide.
He also said there is the need for the introduction of digital surveillance systems like CCTV and drones in major cities including body cameras for officers for stricter police accountability.
Egbetokun said this at the Maiden Distinguished Alumni Lecture of Centre for Peace and Security Studies, Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin.
According to him, with effective policing, peace, security and overall well being of Nigerians can be guaranteed adding that all stakeholders have critical roles to play in achieving a secure environment.
The IGP stressed the need for collaboration among the police, government institutions, community leaders, civil society organisations, the media and all relevant stakeholders, to ensure a holistic approach to policing.
“Nigeria can achieve lasting peace and stability, improving the overall safety and quality of life for its citizens, by addressing the challenges impeding effective policing.
“Ultimately, a reformed and empowered police force, backed by a supportive network of stakeholders, can contribute to building a more secure and just society for all Nigerians.
“However, we recognise that overcoming our challenges requires comprehensive reforms, increased funding, the adoption of modern policing techniques to enhance the capabilities of the police and foster greater public trust and mobilising public support for the police,” he said.
The IGP, an alumnus of Al-Hikmah University, recommended that the police should be removed from the envelope budget system which restricts the police to funding only ongoing projects.
“There should be more allocation of resources to equip and train law enforcement agencies effectively”, he said.
He urged prioritizing of continuous training, especially in areas like cybercrime and human rights to improve police effectiveness.
The police boss said the decentralisation of the police force will allow the states to operate state-level police departments with clearly defined roles and oversight mechanisms.
Egbetokun called for investment in police welfare, including better salaries, housing, healthcare and career development opportunities to reduce corruption and enhance job performance.
He stressed the need for inter-agency collaboration, creating a well-coordinated approach to national security between the police, military, intelligence agencies and other law enforcement agencies.
Earlier the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Noah Yusuf, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders in intelligence gathering and effective policing to ensure a crime-free, peaceful and prosperous society.
Prof Yusuf stressed the need for synergy among all security operatives and stakeholders to ensure effective community policing and security of lives and property.
He said Al-Hikmah University, being the first Islamic Faith-based institution, is committed to excellence, research and community engagement.
Yusuf pointed out that the University will not relent in its efforts toward equipping students with skills, knowledge, morals and character as future leaders.
