Delegations of the European Union, Economic Community of West African States and the International Police, on Monday, met with the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, over the implementation of the West African Police Information System.
The WAPIS is targeted to enhance police capacity to collect, store, analyse, and share crucial law enforcement data across borders.
During the meeting held at the secretariat of the Ministry of Police Affairs, in Abuja, the minister noted that WAPIS presents the Nigeria Police Force and Nigeria as a country, with a unique opportunity to strengthen law enforcement efforts and foster collaboration among West African countries.
Gaidam said, “It is with immense pleasure and honor that I welcome the distinguished delegation composed of representatives from the ECOWAS, the European Union, and INTERPOL. This visit marks a significant milestone in our journey towards the implementation of the West African Police Information System here in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Your presence here today is a testament to the importance and urgency that we all attach to enhancing regional security cooperation.
“The implementation of the WAPIS holds immense significance for the Nigeria Police and our great nation as a whole. As we stand at the forefront of addressing the complex challenges of transnational crime and terrorism, the need for efficient and reliable information-sharing mechanisms cannot be overstated. The WAPIS presents us with a unique opportunity to strengthen our law enforcement efforts and foster collaboration among West African countries,”
The minister further noted that the WAPIS would enhance police capacity to collect, store, analyze, and share crucial law enforcement data across borders.
Gaidam added, “By implementing the WAPIS, we will enhance our capacity to collect, store, analyze, and share crucial law enforcement data across borders. This system will enable us to tackle the menace of organized crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and terrorism more effectively. It will empower our law enforcement agencies with the necessary tools to identify and apprehend criminals who operate across national boundaries, ensuring that they face the full force of justice.
“Moreover, the WAPIS system will contribute to the creation of a safer and more secure West Africa. It will foster trust and cooperation among our regional partners, facilitating the exchange of information, best practices, and expertise. Together, we can establish a formidable network that transcends borders, allowing us to combat crime collectively and protect the well-being of our citizens. I must emphasize that the successful implementation of the WAPIS in Nigeria would not have been possible without the steadfast support and collaboration of our esteemed partners – the ECOWAS Commission, the European Union, and INTERPOL have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to fostering regional security and supporting Nigeria’s efforts in this critical endeavor.
“Your presence here today exemplifies the strength of our partnership and the shared vision we have in building a safer West Africa. In conclusion, I extend my deepest appreciation to the members of the delegation for their visit and for their continued support towards the implementation of the WAPIS system in Nigeria. I am confident that our collaboration will yield fruitful results, and together, we will create a safer and more secure West Africa for the benefit of our nations and our people.”
