Nigeria Police boost counter-terrorism capacity with new training, bases, and deployments

Crime Diary, Politics, Uncategorized

CRIME DIARY (NPA) — March 7, 2026 — The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has strengthened its counter-terrorism capacity through a specialised training programme and the establishment of new Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) bases across the country.

The training, conducted in collaboration with the British High Commission in Nigeria through the Office of the Counter Terrorism Regional Coordinator for West Africa, is part of efforts to enhance the Force’s ability to combat terrorism, banditry, and other serious crimes threatening national security.

In a statement issued Saturday, Acting ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, Force Public Relations Officer, said the expanded capacity includes new CTU bases and additional deployments.

“The two-week Close Quarter Battle and Intelligence Analysis training programme featured fifty-six (56) participants drawn from the Counter Terrorism Units of the Nigeria Police Force. The officers were exposed to contemporary counter-terrorism tactics, intelligence analysis, and operational best practices aimed at strengthening coordinated responses to emerging security threats,” the statement read.

At the closing ceremony in Abuja, Lt. Col. Ian Tyler of the British High Commission commended the professionalism of participants and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations.

Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu, represented by AIG Akoh Gabriel, said the initiative reflects his administration’s determination to continually upscale the operational capacity of officers. He expressed appreciation to the British Government for its sustained partnership.

As part of broader measures, the IGP approved the establishment of new CTU bases in Madagali (Adamawa State), Ikot Odo (Akpabuyo, Cross River State), and Ode-Remo (Ogun State), alongside additional deployments to strategic locations nationwide to enhance rapid response capability.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to strengthening partnerships, building operational capacity, and deploying strategic resources to combat terrorism and other emerging security threats across the country,” the statement added.