With the conception of the SIS, mobilization of officers and men, it is only logical that the men be given specialized training to enable them imbibe new skills and orientation, which will adequately prepare them for the task ahead
The Inspector General Of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun said this while inaugurating Training for 38 Commanders, Tactical Operatives Of The Special Intervention Squad (SIS) in conjunction With U.S Government (Bureau Of International Narcotics And Law Enforcement Affairs).
At the inauguration of the training program for Commanders of the Special Intervention Squad today, the IGP affirmed that the program is designed to prepare the trainees for the challenges associated with their new responsibility of taking up the lead positions in combating the scourge of kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, terrorism and other evolving challenges of crime confronting our society.
According to the IGP the launching of training for SIS Commanders is major milestone towards the full operationalization of the SIS across the length and breadth of our country.
"As you are all aware, on the 17th January, 2024, I formally launched the Squad in FCT. Operatives of the Squad have since commenced intensive operation, reinvigorating the offensive against criminal elements by taking the battle to their hideouts.
"The Squad was primarily established for the purpose of confronting every situation that threatens the peace of the citizenry and restore law and order across the nation. The initiative is pivotal to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians while guaranteeing the supremacy of the state and the rule of law thus protecting the integrity of our nation."he added
The IGP noted tgat the successes recorded so far aptly testify to the triumph of willpower over adversities. We are commencing the training today with a total of thirty-eight officers who were diligently selected to be the precursors of this crucial endeavor based on their competence, integrity, track record, demonstrated commitment to the cause of justice and suitability for the assignment.
"They will assume the roles of Commanders of the Squad across the states. This is the first step in the training phase as we expect the trainings of the men to commence at the conclusion of this particular program.
"It is the expectation of the Force that the officers being presented for this training will take full advantage of the training firstly, for their personal development and secondly for the success in their assignment, by being impactful on the field so as to attain the goals of the Squad." he stressed
He commended the efforts of the Senior Advisor, Shaun Gavin and the NPF Liaison, Busayo Mogaji. "I also want to thank the Nigeria Police and the American trainers who will be directly involved in this challenging course. I want to assure you that we will take full advantage of the training for the benefit the Nigerian society. "
In his opening remarks, the head Police Mobile Force, AIG Yekini Adio Ayoku thanked the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and by extension the Government of the United States of America for resolutely supporting NPF towards ensuring the success of the SIS project.
AIG Yekini Adio Ayoku noted that the 38 Commanders, Tactical Operatives Of The Special Intervention Squad (SIS) we're carefully and diligently selected for the training.
In his goodwill message, Senior Advisor, Shaun Gavin revealed why the Bureau Of International Narcotics And Law Enforcement Affairs decided to partner with the Nigeria Police Force. He said because or the vision statement of NPF which says "to make Nigeria safer and more secure for economic development growth. To create a safe and secure environment for everyone living in Nigeria."
He said the fundamental duties of a police officer include serving the community, safeguarding lives and property, protecting the innocence, keeping the peace and ensuring the rights of all to liberty, equality and justice. And that is why the US governments wants to support the Nigeria police.
"The Vision and Mission Nigeria Police Force status through the SIS is crucial. Nigeria, as your partner, we want to help support that. We want to help you achieve the goals and aims of the Nigeria Police Force in the SIS to protect the people in Nigeria to improve the economy. Protect the rights and freedoms of the people living here. So we thank you for this opportunity. Thank you for the dedication and service you are performing to the people and government of Nigeria. We thank you for your service. We thank you for your time and efforts to thank you for the partnership we have."
The Force in this drive found a willing and dependable ally in the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), an agency of the American Government, which volunteered to train the officers of the SIS.