The Nigerian government has officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States to enhance the capabilities of the Police Special Intervention Squad (SIS) in addressing banditry and various criminal activities within the country.
During the MoU signing event at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters in Abuja, Inspector-General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun inaugurated the training program in collaboration with the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.
The SIS, conceived to combat violent crimes nationwide, had initially been established in only two areas, Plateau State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), due to the escalating challenges of banditry and kidnapping.
Egbetokun emphasized the program’s purpose, designed to equip commanders with the skills needed to lead in the fight against kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, terrorism, and other evolving crimes.
He acknowledged the urgency of responding to the increasing security threats faced by the nation and highlighted the role of the SIS as an elite force capable of anticipating and managing crisis situations.
The Inspector-General highlighted the importance of the collaboration with the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, noting the signing of the MoU on December 18, 2023.
The training program’s inauguration marked a significant step towards fully operationalizing the SIS nationwide, following its formal launch on January 17, 2024, in the FCT.
Egbetokun provided examples of the squad’s early successes, including the interception of arms suppliers along the Abuja-Kaduna expressway and the neutralization of armed bandits in a fierce encounter within the FCT-Kaduna axis.
He announced the commencement of training for thirty-eight selected officers who would serve as commanders across different states, expressing expectations for their personal development and success in fulfilling the squad’s objectives.
The Inspector-General urging the officers to maximize the training opportunities for both personal growth and effectiveness in their assignments, emphasizing the importance of their role in achieving the squad’s goals.
