The Nigerian Navy and the Nigeria Police Force have reaffirmed their commitment to deeper collaboration in training, intelligence sharing and joint operations to enhance national security.

This was the focus of discussions during a courtesy visit by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Idi Abbas, at Naval Headquarters on Wednesday in Abuja.

In his remarks, the CNS, Mr Abbas, said inter-agency synergy remained critical to addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges, stressing that no single agency could succeed in isolation.

He described the current security environment as demanding collective national effort, adding that intelligence-driven operations and collaboration with sister agencies remained key pillars of the navy’s strategy.

“Our institutions must work together and conduct operations based on intelligence. No single agency can do it alone,” he said.

The naval chief assured the police of continued support, particularly in joint operations and capacity building, while proposing enhanced training for marine police personnel at naval facilities, including the Gunnery Maintenance and Support Development Centre in Lagos.

He also emphasised the need to strengthen information sharing, especially through existing platforms such as the Maritime Crime Investigation Desk, to improve responses to maritime threats.

On his part, the inspector-general of police said the visit was to appreciate the navy’s sustained cooperation with the police, particularly in joint operations and maritime security.

He noted that Nigeria’s vast terrain, including waterways and hard-to-reach areas, required coordinated efforts among security agencies.

“We are here to say thank you for the cooperation you have extended to the Nigeria Police Force. We have no alternative but to work together,” he said.

Mr Disu announced plans to increase training opportunities for naval personnel in police institutions, especially in advanced detective courses, to deepen inter-agency understanding and professionalism.

He also pledged the readiness of the police to engage in joint training programmes that would enhance operational effectiveness.

The IG stressed ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening intelligence-led policing, noting that future deployments would be guided strictly by credible intelligence.

“We will not deploy without intelligence. That era is over. We are ready to share intelligence with you,” he said.

Both chiefs also underscored the importance of accountability and seamless collaboration in handling cases involving personnel across services.

They agreed that improved coordination, including structured handover of operations between agencies, would enhance stability in cleared areas.

The meeting further highlighted plans for sustained cooperation in securing maritime and inland waterways, as well as broader national security operations. 

(NAN)