The Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, has sought the partnership and support of the European Union, EU, to actualise police reforms and reiterated the Nigerian Government’s commitment to creating a more responsive and professional police service.......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>
He made this appeal during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the European Union Embassy, led by Ambassador Gautier Mignot, to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The minister emphasised that the EU’s expertise, resources, and experience in police reform and governance could significantly contribute to Nigeria’s ongoing efforts.
His words: “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.”
Gaidam highlighted key areas of focus, including improved training, better resource allocation, and the establishment of robust oversight mechanisms to ensure transparency and public trust.
He recalled that the European Union has been at the forefront of supporting regional security initiatives, including the West Africa Police Information System, WAPIS.
“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 stated.
Gaidam noted that the EU and ECOWAS remain committed to ensuring the full rollout of WAPIS across all ECOWAS countries and Mauritania. Funding for the initiative, which began in November 2017, has been extended until May 2025.
Given the prevailing security challenges in Nigeria and the broader West African region, he stressed the need for continued EU funding to fully implement and sustain the WAPIS system.
“Additional technical assistance and capacity-building support will further enhance Nigeria’s law enforcement capabilities and ensure that we maximise the impact of this crucial initiative,” Gaidam added.
Earlier, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria Gautier Mignot, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Police Affairs, describing it as one of their key partners. He emphasised that the cooperation is based on shared values and interests, respect for the rule of law, human rights, and democracy, noting that policing is central to the expression of these values.
He further stated that stability and security in Nigeria and ECOWAS are of significant interest to the EU, especially in light of evolving global security concerns. He also underscored the need to reform and strengthen the criminal justice system, tackle gender-based violence, and combat human trafficking.
“Migration issues and the powerful criminal networks operating worldwide make it crucial that we work hand in hand to dismantle these networks and protect their victims,” he said.
