BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF
Since assuming her role alongside her senior colleague, the Minister of State for Police Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim fsi, has pursued a bold vision for a world-class police force suited to the 21st century. Her efforts span national security, international collaboration, and the adoption of best practices.
Imaan has spearheaded an inclusive, community-based, intelligence-led, and technology-driven police force. “Our goal is to maintain public safety, uphold the rule of law, and foster community trust through transparent and accountable practices,” she said.
Despite the challenges of eight previous reform attempts that created rivalry and administrative gaps, Imaan is determined to achieve instant results. She embarked on a comprehensive review of past reforms and streamlined the force’s activities.
This political will led to a transformative roadmap for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), categorized into six key areas: infrastructure, technical operations, policy development, community policing, strategic communication, and officer welfare.
Under Imaan’s leadership, the ministry regularly engaged with agencies through meetings focused on transformation, achievements, and challenges. Multiple position papers and reports were reviewed to gather input for effective reforms.
Stakeholder engagement was a priority, involving development partners, embassies, private security organizations, and CSOs. “Collaboration with international bodies is crucial for adopting best practices,” Imaan emphasized.
Her international engagements include collaborating with the World Police Forum in San Diego, studying the American police system, and engaging with the Abu Dhabi Police Academy. Agreements with South Korea focused on technical and logistics support.
Domestically, Imaan visited police training institutions in Kaduna and Lagos, and the Police Academy in Wudil, Kano, to assess infrastructure needs. She also held town hall meetings to gather community input on national policing policy.
Imaan’s leadership has already yielded significant achievements, including the establishment of the National Crime Data Fusion Center (NCDFC) and launching a veteran foundation for retired officers. A robust community policing policy is nearing completion.
Securing technical assistance, funding, and partnerships locally and internationally, Imaan’s efforts are reshaping the NPF. The ministry is developing a national policing policy to set strategic directions and review the national security strategy.
In collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, she launched the “Young and Secure Project” to involve youth in national security activities. “Our youth are key to a secure future,” she noted.
One year on, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim’s achievements are evident, significantly improving the security situation in the country.
**Written by Abubakar Yusuf** (yus.abubakar3@gmail.com)
