Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has proposed the integration of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) into the police force for increased operational efficiency.
Speaking at the National Dialogue on State Policing convened by the House of Representatives in Abuja, Egbetokun emphasized the necessity of streamlining security agencies to eliminate redundancies.
Represented by Assistant Inspector General of Police, Ben Okoro, Egbetokun argued that the NSCDC and FRSC duplicate the functions of the police, citing the ongoing challenges of inadequate training and manpower within the force.
He highlighted the deteriorating condition of police barracks due to neglect, affecting officers’ performance negatively.
“This has have a negative impact on the performance of the policemen,” he stated.
Addressing calls for state police, Egbetokun asserted that Nigeria is not yet ready for such a transition.
He cautioned against potential misuse of state police by governors to suppress opposition and warned of jurisdictional conflicts and resource limitations in combating complex security threats like terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.
Egbetokun emphasized the urgent need for enhanced personnel training and adequate funding to modernize policing and maintain internal security.
Additionally, Chief of Defense Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, stressed the necessity for a comprehensive security framework to address the escalating security challenges facing the nation.
