The Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex, Lagos, and the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos command, have reaffirmed commitment to collaborate in combating trans-border crimes and other security threats.

This was disclosed in a statement on Wednesday.

According to the statement, the renewed commitment was reaffirmed on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the assistant inspector general of police in charge of FCID Annex Lagos, Simeon Akpanudom, to the NIS comptroller in Lagos, Christopher Onajirin.

The visit aimed at strengthening existing synergy between the police, particularly the FCID and the NIS in intelligence sharing, border security, and criminal records management.

Mr Akpanudom described the relationship between the FCID Lagos and the immigration services as cordial and productive. He underlined the importance of sustained collaboration among security agencies, particularly in combating trans-border crimes, human trafficking and other emerging security challenges confronting the country.

According to him, continuous intelligence sharing, professionalism and cooperation among agencies remain critical toward achieving a crime-free society and enhancing national security.

Mr Onajirin described the visit as an honour and commended the AIG for his leadership qualities and commitment to inter-agency cooperation. He acknowledged the long-standing relationship between the Nigeria Police Force and the NIS, describing the police as a key pillar of Nigeria’s internal security architecture.

He commended the professionalism and dedication of police officers, noting that the NIS in Lagos had recorded significant operational successes in combating human trafficking and dismantling criminal syndicates with support from the police.

He restated the need for continuous intelligence sharing among security agencies to effectively address offences linked to illegal migration and trans-border criminal activities.

Mr Onajirin also said that the NIS was improving visa processing through digital platforms, noting that visas in certain categories could now be obtained within 24 hours.

(NAN)