The inspector general of police, Kayode Egbetokun, has described the need for a proactive, intelligence-led and community-oriented approach to policing as essential for the effective addressing of security challenges facing Nigeria.

The IGP said this during the inauguration of the Nigeria Police Intelligence School in Kwara on Thursday.

Mr Egbetokun noted that continuous training, capacity building, adoption of modern technologies, and collaboration between the police, academic institutions, and communities will help foster a safe and secure environment for Nigerians.

The inauguration was followed by a maiden lecture delivered by the police chief, accompanied by top-ranking police officers, at the Al-Hikmah University Centre for Peace and Security Studies.

The force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that the IGP’s stance on sustainable peace and development recognised the need for environmental, economic, human and food security approaches to resolve security concerns.

Mr Adejobi said, “The inspector general of police hereby assures that the Nigeria Police Force will continually pursue strategies aimed at enhancing its intelligence capabilities and proactive community engagements to bridge the schism between the Police and members of the public.”

The police urged Nigerians to use CCTVs and other permissible technological devices to assist the force in crime fighting.