In a move aimed at significantly enhancing internal security and law enforcement capabilities through international partnership and collaboration, the Inspector-General of Police, Dr Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, who doubles as the Chairman of the West African Police Chiefs Committee (WAPCCO), received a visit of a delegation from International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) on Tuesday, April 8.
The delegation was led by the Executive Director, Police Services, Mr Cyril Gout, to the Force Headquarters, Abuja. The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement, said that the visit was aimed at strengthening the cooperation with the Nigeria Police Force and also notify the police of the handing over of the system.
The FPRO disclosed that earlier, the Ministry of Police Affairs took over the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) from INTERPOL on behalf of the Nigerian Government, and the system is currently domiciled with the Nigeria Police Force.
According to him, the WAPIS system is strategically designed to strengthen police information systems throughout the region by harmonizing data management practices, bolstering data collection efforts, and fostering enhanced information sharing among law enforcement agencies in the West African Sub-region and Nigeria.
The Inspector-General of Police, while recognizing the significant role of INTERPOL in international cooperation, a role crucial in tackling complex challenges around the globe, appreciated its efforts and assured it of full cooperation and the implementation of the WAPIS programme in Nigeria and across the West African Region.
The Nigeria Police Force is said to be committed to leveraging all three levels of WAPIS to their maximum potential, confident that WAPIS would be a game changer in Nigeria’s fight against crime.
