Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the state minister of police affairs, announced at a two-day retreat for the ministry's directorate cadre that the federal government will soon begin withdrawing police personnel from Very Important Personalities (VIPs) and develop a community policing strategy.
The retreat themed "Re: Envisioning the Ministry of Police Affairs for Effective Internal Security: Strengthening Administration and Management Functions for Resilience and Efficiency."
The minister listed the ministry's primary responsibilities as developing and implementing a harmonized police reform report, amending the Police Act, and carrying out Mr. President's directive on the withdrawal of personnel from VIPs, among other things.Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated that the mandates are more than just tasks, but transformative initiatives that can improve internal security in Nigeria, noting that the two-day management retreat will inspire a collective commitment to align ministerial mandate efforts to contribute to the realization of Mr. President's vision for a renewed Police Force.
She recalled that the Nigeria Police Force is at a crossroads, dealing with the consequences of decades of neglect that have hampered its ability to fulfill its constitutional mandate.
Dr Solomon Arase, chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), also stated that the Nigeria Police Force is fundamental to both the ministry and the commission, adding that the primary mandate of both organizations is to ensure the smooth operation of the Nigeria Police Force.Dr Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, permanent secretary, Ministry of Police Affairs, stated in his welcome address that the retreat is aimed at improving efficiency and enhancing service performance in light of current global dynamics.
Mr. Annup Vyas, representative of the British High Commissioner to Nigeria and Head of the Conflict and Security Programme (Nigeria and Lake Chad Basin), stated that the UK is committed to Nigeria's police reforms and ready to do more in the spirit of partnership, adding that they are interested in the future plan, how to adapt and identify new opportunities that will help the Nigeria system.
