The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has emphasized the critical role of INTERPOL’s resources in strengthening Nigeria’s internal security and addressing the country’s pressing security challenges.
Speaking at a workshop themed “Strengthening Internal Security: A Path to a Safer Nigeria” in Abuja, Gaidam highlighted the importance of collaboration between security agencies in leveraging INTERPOL’s tools to combat insurgency, terrorism, organized crime, and cyber threats.
“We must acknowledge that for decades, our nation has grappled with the chronic issue of criminal victimization, which has severely impacted the safety and well-being of our citizens. In recent years, we have faced an alarming rise in insurgency and terrorism, which have taken on increasingly complex international dimensions,” Gaidam stated.
The Minister stressed that adopting INTERPOL-driven methodologies would significantly enhance Nigeria’s ability to tackle security threats. 
He noted that technology-driven approaches are essential in the modern fight against crime, emphasizing the need to integrate international best practices into national security frameworks.
Gaidam also outlined recent achievements in the Ministry of Police Affairs, including the establishment of a National Criminal Data Fusion Center (NCDFC), provision of 24/7 internet service for the West Africa Police Information System (WAPIS), and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with INTERPOL to enhance police operations.
Other advancements include the automation of police specialized services and the adoption of a legal framework for WAPIS, providing security agencies access to crucial intelligence. 
In his goodwill message, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, represented by Major General Olatokunbo Bello, commended the initiative, stating that the workshop provides an avenue for security agencies to share ideas and collaborate effectively in tackling Nigeria’s security concerns.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), noted that security challenges have evolved in the 21st century, with new threats emerging beyond conventional crime.
He expressed confidence that the workshop would strengthen intelligence gathering, electronic evidence collection, and overall policing effectiveness.
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Patrick Daaor, reiterated the importance of structured engagement between law enforcement agencies. He emphasized the need for trust between the police and communities, calling for improved transparency, accountability, and communication. 
The workshop, organized by the Ministry of Police Affairs, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and the National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, brought together top security stakeholders, experts, and policymakers to explore ways to integrate INTERPOL’s resources into Nigeria’s security architecture.
With growing security concerns, stakeholders at the event agreed on the need for enhanced collaboration, technological adoption, and community-based policing to effectively combat crime and ensure lasting peace and stability in Nigeria.
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