The Federal Government is laying the groundwork for the emergence of a world-class police force that is inclusive, intelligence-led, and community-based, according to Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Honourable Minister of State for Police Affairs. She outlined this vision during the “Renewed Hope Police Agenda: Citizens Town Hall Engagement on Strengthening Community Policing in Nigeria,” held at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, Abia State.
Addressing the audience, the Minister emphasized that the government is committed to deep reforms supported by a robust implementation plan and innovative resource allocation, addressing the historical shortcomings of past reform efforts. “Security is inherently local,” she noted, stressing the importance of tailoring policing strategies to reflect the unique dynamics, challenges, and strengths of each community.
“Today’s town hall is a reflection of the significant shift in our approach to policing,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim remarked, highlighting the constitutional priority of security and welfare as enshrined in Section 14(2)(b) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. Abia State, renowned for its vibrant commerce and industry, was spotlighted as a critical area due to its strategic location and the security challenges associated with its economic activities.
The Minister underscored the government’s resolve under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, with security placed at the core of its eight priority areas. The Renewed Hope Police Agenda, she explained, is designed to position the Nigerian Police Force strategically, ensuring it meets its constitutional mandate through a community policing strategy rooted in local peculiarities.
This strategy, she said, is built on six foundational pillars: Technical and Operational Excellence, Infrastructure Advancement, Welfare Enhancement, Policy Framework Development, Strategic Communication, and Public Trust Management. These pillars aim to redefine and strengthen the Nigeria Police Force, ensuring it operates with inclusivity and full community ownership.
In his remarks, the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, lauded the Ministry’s collaborative approach to addressing security concerns. He emphasized that integrating community leaders into security strategies is vital, describing the engagement as an opportunity to update knowledge, review existing plans, and develop new strategies to combat emerging crimes.
“Security of life and property is the priority of my administration,” Otti declared, reiterating his government’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment for continuous business activities. He mentioned the establishment of a joint task force and collaborations with various security agencies as part of his administration’s efforts to ensure round-the-clock safety in the state.
The town hall engagement, which brought together key stakeholders and dignitaries, underscored the Federal Government’s renewed focus on building a police force capable of addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
