The Inspector General of Police of Nigeria, Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has joined African police leaders and representatives from the African Union (AU) and AFRIPOL Secretariat to discuss critical security challenges affecting the continent. This 12th AFRIPOL Steering Committee meeting, held from October 29 to 30, brings together high-ranking officials from African regional police organizations, including Chairmen of SARPCCO (Southern African Regional Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization), CAPCCO (Central African Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization), NAPCCO (North African Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization), and the West African Police Chiefs’ Committee (WAPCCO), chaired by IGP Egbetokun.

The meeting focuses on addressing urgent transnational security issues, including terrorism and its financing, human trafficking, and cybercrime. These challenges, which cross national borders, require coordinated efforts and innovative solutions. The participating officials are committed to strengthening cooperation and enhancing collaboration between police agencies across the continent to effectively combat these crimes.

Representing West African police organizations, IGP Egbetokun emphasized the importance of regional integration in addressing these complex security threats. He expressed optimism that the collective knowledge and expertise shared during the meeting would facilitate the successful implementation of strategies to reduce crime rates, especially those related to cross-border criminal activities.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer at Force Headquarters, Abuja, stated that the discussions would contribute significantly to improving African police cooperation frameworks, with the overarching goal of fostering peace and security across the continent.