FG Seeks Operational Support of Interpol to Tackle Terrorism

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, yesterday, sought the operational support of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) to address the challenges of terrorism and strengthen counter-terrorism efforts that will contribute to the overall security of our nation.
He made the request during the visit of the Interpol delegation led by its President, Major General Ahmed Naser Raisi, to the ministry in Abuja.
The minister stated that the extension of the Interpol Global Secure Communication Network, I-24/7, to the major international airports and borders will enhance the country’s security infrastructure and serve as a valuable tool in combating cross-border crimes.

According to him, “The extension of the Interpol Global Secure Communication Network, I-24/7, to Nigerian law enforcement agencies, including organisations such as the NDLEA, EFCC, Nigerian Navy, NFIU, and Nigeria Immigration Service had significantly bolstered our security infrastructure.

“This expansion has empowered our agencies to address the growing threat of cross-border crimes more efficiently.”
He said the support in terms of capacity building and equipment donations from Interpol to Nigerian law enforcement agencies had remained invaluable and positively impacted the ability of security agencies to tackle crime more effectively.

Gaidam pointed out that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Nigeria and Interpol on the Privileges and Immunities of Interpol in Nigeria in 2022 solidified its commitment to facilitating Interpol’s operations within our borders.
“The signing of the MOU between Nigeria and Interpol on the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) in 2019 has strengthened regional cooperation among West African countries in sharing criminal intelligence,” he said.

The minister noted that the construction of the Interpol National Central Bureau permanent headquarters in Abuja was well underway and the 7-storey building will serve as a hub for officers seconded to Nigeria from Interpol, Afripol, and WAPIS, to enhance collaborative efforts.
He added that Nigeria has consistently supported Interpol’s programs by actively participating in operations targeting global criminal networks noting that the collaboration with Interpol has also led to significant achievements in terms of criminal record management and the commitment to maintaining international security.
Speaking earlier, the President of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), Maj. Gen. Ahmed Al Raisi, appreciated the support of the Nigerian government and its agencies for their cooperation in the running of Interpol.

He said the organisation was open to all member countries to participate and contribute to the achievement of the mandate of the organisation.
Maj. Gen. Ahmed Al Raisi further clarified that “Nobody owns this organisation. It is for every participating member. Nigeria has been contributing to the organisation for the past 63 years and this contribution goes to salaries, training facilities, building, and others that make the organisation sustainable.

“Without Nigeria and other African contributions, it would be difficult to run it. We do not have a hidden agenda. Our agenda is to have a sustainable budget, move to the digital era and diversity in the organisation’s operations.”
The Interpol boss said the anti-crime organisation created more diversity and opened spaces for Africa and South America with very important financial and anti-corruption units.