By Dele Ogbodo
In the face of grinding security challenges in the North and other parts of country which has raised serious concerns on the war against criminalty, kidnappings, and banditry and the capacity of the security forces to contain such menace, the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has urged the Nigeria Police Force to embrace a new strategy of proactivity and aggression to fight against the enemies of peace in the country.
Speaking at the Force Hedaquarters over the weekend in Abuja during a courtesy call to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, he acknowledged that he stands before the Nigeria Police Force not just as a Minister, but as a fellow warrior in the battle against terrorism and banditry that threaten Nigeria.
He declared…the defensive approach has emboldened the enemies and allowed them to grow stronger adding that it is time to change the narrative, to shift the balance of power in our favor
The Minister said the Nigeria Police Force should no longer wait for the enemy to strike, but instead, take the fight to their very doorstep.
We must seek out their hideouts, disrupt their operations, and dismantle their networks piece by piece. Gaidam stressed.
He said: “I stand before you today not just as a Minister, but as a fellow warrior in the battle against terrorism and banditry that threatens our beloved nation.
We are facing a formidable enemy, one that thrives in darkness and preys on fear and uncertainty.
“But I come to you with a message of hope and determination, a message that together, we can overcome these challenges and emerge victorious.”
He said the defensive approach has emboldened the enemies and allowed them to grow stronger adding that it is time to change the narrative, to shift the balance of power in our favor.
“By being proactive, and taking the fight to the hideouts of the terrorists and bandits, we can weaken them, disrupt their plans, and ultimately defeat them.” The Minister reiterated
Gaidam, however acknowledged that the task will not be easy and requires courage, sacrifice, and unwavering determination.
“I have full faith in every one of you. I have seen your bravery on the frontlines in many peacekeeping missions, your dedication to duty, and your unwavering commitment to protecting our people.
“Together, we are a force to be reckoned with, a force that cannot be defeated.” He stressed.
The Minister pointed out that the Nigerian Police Force holds a special place in the hearts of our citizens and they are entrusted with the important responsibility of maintaining peace, protecting lives, and ensuring the security of our communities adding that dedication and sacrifice in the face of numerous challenges are commendable.
Gaidam assured that their welfare and professional development are of paramount importance to the government and recognizes the need to address the various challenges faced daily, including inadequate infrastructure, insufficient equipment, and limited resources.
“We will invest in modernizing the Nigerian Police Force. The world around us is rapidly evolving, and law enforcement agencies must keep pace with emerging trends and technologies.
“We will enhance your capacity through the provision of state-of-the-art equipment, advanced training programs, and technological solutions. We will foster partnerships with international organizations and friendly nations to leverage their expertise and experiences for the benefit of our officers” The Minister stated.
The Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, said that the Ministry will collaborate with relevant stakeholders to create an improved welfare, training, and supportive environment for professional growth.
She urged the Inspector General of Police to promote gender equality and facilitate the inclusion of female police officers in the top management of the force as well as effective implementation of a safe school environment policy.
In his welcome address, the Inspector General of Police IGP Olukayode Egbetokun thanked the Ministers for the commendation which will serve as motivation to officers and rank and file of the force to serve the country better.
He assured them of the readiness of the Nigeria Police Force to work with the Ministry and support efforts put in place to enable the police to get better deals such as improving welfare, modern equipment, and reform of the force.