The Federal Government of Nigeria has formally received the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) platform and infrastructure from the European Union and INTERPOL, marking a significant step toward enhancing regional security cooperation and intelligence sharing in West Africa.
The official handing-over ceremony took place at the ECOWAS Secretariat in Asokoro, Abuja, where the Executive Director of Police Services at INTERPOL, Cyril Gout, presented the documents to the Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam.
Speaking at the event, Senator Gaidam described the ceremony as a strong symbol of Nigeria’s commitment to regional security through active participation in the WAPIS Programme.
He emphasized the country’s role in ensuring the initiative’s sustainability and its importance in strengthening data-driven law enforcement efforts across the region.
Highlighting progress since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with INTERPOL in April 2019, the Minister noted the successful renovation and operationalization of the Data Collection and Registration Centre (DACORE), located at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja. The centre, inaugurated in May 2021, serves as the nerve centre for collating police data and sharing intelligence with regional partners.
“At the inception, Nigeria received an initial donation of workstations, which greatly enhanced technological capabilities,” Gaidam stated. “We also ensured the inclusion of key national law enforcement agencies, including the NDLEA, Nigerian Navy, NIS, EFCC, NCoS, NAPTIP, NCS, and the Nigeria Police Force as the lead agency.”
As Chairman of the WAPIS National Committee (WANACO), Gaidam affirmed his oversight of the programme’s implementation and pledged continued collaboration across agencies to enhance information sharing and operational coordination. He also disclosed that a budget proposal for the project has been submitted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and is receiving commendable attention.
Further reinforcing the government’s commitment, the Minister assured that stable internet connectivity has been provided at DACORE to support its operations and communication with remote agencies. He also mentioned the Ministry’s recent three-day WAPIS workshop focused on strengthening inter-agency collaboration, with outcomes submitted to the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, reiterated the EU’s dedication to improving security in West Africa. He revealed that the Union had invested €380 million to modernize security forces and establish centralized, secure police information systems at both national and regional levels.
INTERPOL’s Cyril Gout commended the efforts of ECOWAS and the EU in the WAPIS project, noting that the integration of police information systems will bolster the fight against transnational crimes, including human trafficking. He, however, stressed the need for continuous investment in training and capacity building to sustain the system’s effectiveness.
The ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including Dr. Isac Armstrong, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, and Ambassador Abdel Fatau Musa.
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