The Nigeria Police Force has concluded a two-week specialised training programme on intelligence gathering and Close Quarter Battle (CQB) for 55 personnel of its Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU), aimed at strengthening the operational capacity of officers in tackling terrorism and other security threats.
This was revealed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu.
According to the statement, the training, organised in partnership with the British High Commission, was held at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, and focused on advanced intelligence operations, tactical planning and practical room-clearance techniques essential for counter-terrorism missions.
The graduation ceremony was attended by senior officials, including Colonel Richard Hoyobe, representing the British High Commission and serving as Deputy Head of the British Defence Staff West Africa; the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Counter-Terrorism Unit, AIG Akoh Gabriel; and the Deputy Commissioner of Police, CTU, DCP Maina Mamman.
Representing the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, AIG Gabriel commended the British High Commission for its continued support in enhancing Nigeria’s security architecture through capacity-building initiatives.
He disclosed that more than 140 CTU operatives have benefited from British-backed training programmes in recent months, including 30 officers trained in Côte d’Ivoire and another 110 who underwent intelligence and tactical combat training within Nigeria.
AIG Gabriel urged the newly certified officers to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the programme in combating terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality while maintaining professionalism and respecting the rights of citizens.
He also praised the Inspector-General of Police for prioritising personnel development and investing in initiatives designed to improve the effectiveness of the Force.
The ceremony ended with the presentation of certificates to the participants, officially recognising them as certified Intelligence Analysts and Tactical Close Quarter Combatants.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to continuously improving the skills and operational readiness of its personnel in order to enhance public safety and national security.
