The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has called on top management of the Ministry and its agencies to fully commit to delivering on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a reformed and citizen-centric policing system in Nigeria.
Speaking through the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Anuma Ogbonnaya Nlia, at the second phase of the 2024 Management Retreat held in Abuja, the Minister emphasized the need for collective responsibility in aligning with global best practices in policing. The retreat, themed “Enhancing Strategic Leadership and Policy Implementation in the Ministry of Police Affairs,” brought together key stakeholders for in-depth discussions on police reform and improved service delivery.
“This retreat provides a vital platform for strategic collaboration and innovation, aimed at improving professionalism and workforce quality across all levels of the police ecosystem,” Gaidam stated in a press release signed by Bolaji Kazeem, Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations.
Highlighting the urgency of the administration’s reform agenda, the Minister said the initiative marks a departure from past rhetoric and signals genuine transformation within Nigeria’s security sector. He reaffirmed his commitment to the full implementation of President Tinubu’s eight-point agenda, especially as it pertains to national security and law enforcement.
“Security remains our topmost priority, alongside the welfare of our officers. Our focus is on empowering the rank and file to deliver timely, professional, and citizen-focused services,” Gaidam asserted.
In his goodwill message, Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun—represented by Deputy Inspector General of Police (Research & Planning), Basil Idegwu—echoed the Minister’s sentiments, stressing that the retreat’s theme captures the core need to reposition Nigeria’s internal security structure for greater impact.
“Leadership’s ability to develop and implement progressive policy is critical in navigating today’s complex security challenges,” he said.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, Mohammed Sheidu, represented by Director of Planning and Research, Dashe Selman Davis, lauded the administration’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda. He reiterated that police reform plays a central role in achieving broader national goals including poverty reduction, economic growth, and the rule of law.
Public Administration expert, Dr. Magbadelo Sola, also delivered a keynote presentation, emphasizing the need to reorient police attitudes and operational culture toward transparency, accountability, and public service.
“Police are central to public safety and the criminal justice system. Their performance must be continually assessed, and where it falls short, reforms must be pursued pragmatically,” he noted.
The retreat signals renewed momentum in the quest for effective, professional, and trustworthy policing in Nigeria.
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