FG Expresses Concerns Over Lack of Information Sharing Among Security Agencies

The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has expressed concerns over the lack of information sharing among law enforcement agencies in Nigeria.

Speaking on October 29th, 2024, Gaidam highlighted that these agencies, which include the Nigeria Police Force, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerian Customs Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Department of State Services, tend to operate independently rather than collaborating effectively.

Gaidam emphasized the urgency of fostering inter-agency collaboration, especially given the rising security challenges in the country. He stated, "With the insecurity affecting many parts of the country, these agencies must abandon the independent approach and prioritize sharing classified information and intelligence to effectively combat insecurity."

The minister also suggested implementing a system similar to the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) in Nigeria, which would enable seamless intelligence sharing among police forces across West Africa.

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by DIG Dasuki Galadanchi, echoed the minister's sentiments, underlining the importance of trust and partnership among agencies to enhance information-sharing capabilities.

Egbetokun noted, "Effective information sharing is the lifeblood of our efforts to prevent, investigate, and prosecute crimes. It enables us to identify patterns and anticipate potential threats."