The Nigeria Police Force has intensified efforts to strengthen its counter-terrorism operations through specialised training and the establishment of new Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) bases across the country.
The initiative followed a two-week Close Quarter Battle and Intelligence Analysis training programme conducted for 56 officers drawn from CTU formations nationwide. The programme was organised in collaboration with the British High Commission in Nigeria through the Office of the Counter Terrorism Regional Coordinator for West Africa as part of efforts to enhance operational readiness against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes.
The training exposed participating officers to modern counter-terrorism tactics, intelligence analysis and coordinated operational strategies aimed at improving responses to emerging security threats.
Speaking at the closing ceremony held at the Peacekeeping Conference Hall of the Force Headquarters in Abuja, Lieutenant Colonel Ian Tyler of the Counter Terrorism Regional Coordinator’s Office commended the professionalism and commitment demonstrated by the officers. He urged them to apply the knowledge gained in the field and reaffirmed the British Government’s commitment to continued collaboration with Nigerian security agencies in tackling terrorism across the region.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, represented by Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the CTU, Akoh Gabriel, said the training reflects the Force leadership’s resolve to continually enhance the operational capacity of personnel in confronting evolving security challenges. He also expressed appreciation to the British Government for its sustained support and partnership.
As part of broader measures to reinforce the national counter-terrorism framework, the IGP approved the establishment of new CTU bases in Madagali in Adamawa State, Ikot Odo in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State, and Ode-Remo in Ogun State. Additional CTU personnel have also been deployed to strategic locations across the country to strengthen rapid response and operational coverage.
The Police said the measures form part of ongoing efforts to build operational capacity, strengthen international partnerships and enhance national security operations against terrorism and other emerging threats.
