Inspector-General of Police Launches Initiative to Enhance Professionalism in Criminal Investigations Nationwide
At a critical workshop held on November 11, 2024, at the Nigeria Police Resource and Conference Center in Jabi, Abuja, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to raising the standards of criminal investigations across the country.
The event, attended by heads of police investigative and intelligence units nationwide, underscored the importance of professionalism, child rights, and standardized procedures in criminal investigations to reinforce public trust in the Nigerian justice system.
In his opening remarks, IGP Egbetokun stressed that professionalism remains foundational to the police force’s operations, credibility, and public image.
He said, “Professionalism within our ranks is not merely an expectation but a cornerstone of our operational effectiveness and public trust. It underpins the credibility of the criminal justice system, ensuring that investigations are carried out with utmost integrity, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law.” This focus, he explained, is essential in fostering community trust and preventing human rights abuses.
The Inspector-General highlighted that increased professionalism within the force contributes to broader societal stability, enhancing the sense of security among citizens and promoting socio-political development across Nigeria. “In essence,” he added, “the professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force is a vital component in the machinery of national development.”
The workshop also emphasized the Nigeria Police Force’s adherence to global standards, particularly concerning child rights. This commitment aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, with the Nigeria Police Force adopting child-friendly policing practices to protect minors during investigations.
“Our approach is designed to ensure that our interactions with children and young people uphold their dignity and rights while fostering a nurturing and protective environment,” stated IGP Egbetokun.
He elaborated that child-friendly policing practices are not only protective but educational, serving as a foundation for better community relationships with law enforcement.
“This approach encourages a more compassionate and understanding interaction between police and community, which is essential for building a cooperative relationship that benefits all members of society,” the IGP noted.
IGP Egbetokun addressed the force’s protocols for the care of persons in custody, underscoring a zero-tolerance stance toward abuse or neglect.
“These meticulously designed protocols are tailored to guarantee that every individual detained under our supervision is treated with the utmost dignity, respect, and humanity,” he said, stressing the force’s commitment to upholding human rights and ethical law enforcement standards.
IGP Egbetokun announced the launch of a comprehensive Child-Friendly Policing Framework, designed to ensure sensitive handling of minors involved in police investigations.
This framework mandates specialized trauma-informed training for officers who engage with children, prioritizing non-intimidating environments and psychological support to avoid re-traumatizing young individuals. “By adopting these child-sensitive approaches,” he explained, “we are ensuring that minors are not subjected to further trauma during police investigations.”
Commending officers for their expertise, IGP Egbetokun noted the police force’s successes in addressing serious criminal cases this year. The force has secured 35,604 convictions out of 128,988 criminal cases, with over 1,877 firearms and 22,585 ammunitions recovered. Notable cases included the recent rescue of 20 medical students in Benue State and Confluence University students in Kogi State.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you,” he praised, “on your exceptional investigative expertise and experience, which have been instrumental in resolving high-profile cases and dismantling deadly criminal gangs.”
While celebrating achievements, IGP Egbetokun addressed recent performance gaps, noting that certain unprofessional practices have damaged the force’s reputation.
“Regrettably,” he stated, “it has been observed that some unprofessional officers have compromised the Investigation Department’s integrity. These individuals mishandle cases due to incompetence or consideration for personal gains, tarnishing the Force’s image and eroding public confidence.” He vowed immediate corrective actions, including removing unprofessional officers from investigative departments.
To enhance investigative standards, the Nigeria Police Force will now require all officers in investigative roles to undergo rigorous detective training programs.
These include the Specialized Professional Training Program at recognized institutions and an Advanced Detective Course for senior officers. Upon completion, officers will receive formal certification as detectives, elevating their professional status and fostering a culture of accountability.
“Our certification process,” said IGP Egbetokun, “will signify officers’ expertise in criminal investigation, ensuring that the CID is staffed by capable, ethical, and professionally trained officers.”
To support this vision, the Nigeria Police Force will establish detective colleges across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and create a new unit at the Force Headquarters to oversee these reforms.
“The expansion of detective training facilities will increase access to high-quality education in criminal investigation, contributing to the overall professionalization of investigative services in the country,” the IGP explained.
With these reforms, IGP Egbetokun underscored the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to building a more ethical, capable, and community-focused police force. “Our collective efforts,” he concluded, “will lead to a safer, more just, and prosperous Nigeria.”