In a major push to enhance Nigeria’s security forces, the U.S. government, through the Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), has sponsored an intensive eight-week advanced training program for the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). This initiative is aimed at equipping Nigeria’s elite police unit with the skills needed to tackle the country’s most critical security challenges.
The advanced training, held at the Police Mobile Force Training College in Ende Hills, Nasarawa State, saw 169 officers graduate, with an additional 200 officers set to complete the program in the coming months. The program focused on modern law enforcement tactics, including strategies to combat kidnapping, armed robbery, and terrorism, while integrating community policing and human rights principles.
U.S. Supports Nigeria’s Fight Against Crime
At the graduation ceremony, Shaun Gavin, INL Senior Advisor for Law Enforcement, represented the U.S. Embassy and commended the officers for their dedication. He encouraged them to lead with integrity, uphold the rule of law, and respect human rights as they serve to protect Nigerian citizens. Gavin also praised the collaboration between INL, Alutiiq (the implementing partner), and the NPF for delivering expert training to the officers.
The U.S.-sponsored training is part of a broader effort to strengthen Nigeria’s security framework by developing a highly skilled and capable police force. The advanced policing tactics taught during the course are designed to empower the SIS to address Nigeria’s pressing security concerns, especially in areas like counterterrorism and crime prevention.
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Nigeria’s Police Leadership Applauds U.S. Collaboration
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun expressed gratitude to the U.S. Embassy for its continued support of the NPF, noting that the training marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to improve law enforcement. He stressed that this partnership with the U.S. is a game-changer in the fight against crime and instability.
SIS Commander, Commissioner of Police Lanre Ogunlowo, highlighted that 50 SIS commanders have already been trained and deployed to various states, further strengthening Nigeria’s response to security threats.
Nasarawa Governor Lauds U.S. Contribution to Nigerian Security
Governor Abdullahi Audu Sule of Nasarawa State, who also attended the event, praised the U.S. Embassy for its valuable contributions to Nigeria’s security sector. He credited IGP Egbetokun for prioritizing such vital training initiatives, which led to the formation of the SIS to tackle Nigeria’s complex security landscape.
In December 2023, the U.S. Embassy and the NPF signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to support the SIS, particularly focusing on enhancing law enforcement in Nigeria’s northeast region. This partnership not only underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to bolstering Nigeria’s police capabilities but also strengthens civilian security and accountability within the force.
