The Nigerian government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States for the training of commanders in the Police Special Intervention Squad (SIS) with the aim to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against rising criminal activities. The initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement in tackling banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism, and other forms of criminality across the country.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, inaugurated the training program at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters in Abuja on Monday. The SIS, an initiative created by the Inspector-General, was established to combat violent crimes in all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.
Egbetokun expressed regret that the SIS, since its inception, had been implemented in only two territories—Plateau State and the FCT—in response to the surge in banditry and kidnapping. The training program is designed to prepare commanders for their crucial roles in leading efforts to combat various criminal activities.
Addressing the audience at the ceremony, the IGP emphasized the need for an immediate and appropriate response to the security challenges faced by the nation. He highlighted the SIS as an elite unit designed to anticipate, respond spontaneously, and manage crisis situations, going beyond conventional reactive responses to crime management.
The Inspector-General commended the collaboration with the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, an agency of the United States government, which volunteered to train SIS officers. The formal signing of the MoU on December 18, 2023, marked a significant milestone toward the full operationalization of the SIS nationwide.
Egbetokun recounted successful operations by the squad, including intercepting arms suppliers to bandits and engaging armed bandits in a fierce gun battle, resulting in the neutralization of key criminal figures.
Thirty-eight officers, selected based on competence, integrity, track record, and commitment to justice, are set to undergo the training and assume roles as commanders of the squad across states. The Inspector-General expressed the expectation that the training would contribute to personal development and the squad’s success in achieving its goals.
