The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba, has called on police officers in the country to prepare to deal with more crimes in the coming year.
Nigeria’s number one police officer stated that 2021 has been very challenging for the Force due to the activities of kidnappers, bandits, terrorists and other criminals.
He added that the morale and operational base of the force were affected by the #EndSARS violence which happened in 2020 and police operational assets was also destroyed.
Baba made this known on Monday in Abuja at a meeting with Deputy Inspector-Generals of Police, Assistant Inspector-Generals of Police and Commissioners of Police.
He said: “Despite this reality within the internal security space, I am delighted to note that all of you, as strategic police commanders, remained resilient, and demonstrated a commendable level of courage, initiative, sound operational capacity and loyalty.
“This is the spirit that we set out to advance in the policing agenda, upon my assumption of duty as the IG, and I am delighted that you have keyed into this new policing mission.
“While appreciating all members of the force for these modest successes within the outgoing year, it is imperative to note that, the upcoming year could even be more challenging.
“This is because it is a year preceding the general elections in the country. It is anticipated that the political landscape will be charged in a manner that will further test our professional will and operational competence.
“What this translates to is that we will not only be dealing with traditional crimes, our capacity as the lead agency in internal security management will no doubt be stretched to cover the management of threats that will be associated with an active political space in 2022.
“My charge to you as we project into 2022 is to prepare to strengthen your leadership capacity in dealing with crimes customarily associated with the end of the year.”
