Nigeria Police Expand Counter-Terrorism Capacity, Approve New CTU Bases

The Nigeria Police Force has stepped up efforts to strengthen its counter-terrorism operations through a specialised training programme aimed at improving the operational readiness of officers in its Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU).
The training, conducted in partnership with the British High Commission in Nigeria through the Office of the Counter Terrorism Regional Coordinator for West Africa, is part of ongoing measures to enhance the Force’s capacity to combat terrorism, banditry and other serious crimes threatening national security.
The two-week Close Quarter Battle and Intelligence Analysis course involved 56 officers drawn from the Counter Terrorism Unit of the Force. Participants received training in modern counter-terrorism strategies, intelligence analysis and operational techniques designed to strengthen coordinated responses to emerging security threats.
Speaking at the closing ceremony held at the Peacekeeping Conference Hall, Force Headquarters in Abuja, Lieutenant Colonel Ian Tyler of the Office of the Counter Terrorism Regional Coordinator for West Africa at the British High Commission commended the officers for their professionalism and enthusiasm during the programme. He urged them to apply the skills acquired in the field and reaffirmed the commitment of the British Government to continued collaboration with the Nigeria Police in strengthening counter-terrorism operations in the region.
In his remarks, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, represented by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Counter Terrorism Unit at Force Headquarters, AIG Akoh Gabriel, said the training demonstrates the commitment of the current police leadership to continually enhance the operational capacity of officers to respond effectively to evolving security threats. He also expressed appreciation to the British Government for its continued support and partnership.
As part of broader efforts to reinforce the country’s counter-terrorism framework, the Inspector-General of Police has approved the establishment of new Counter Terrorism Unit bases in Madagali, Adamawa State; Ikot Odo in Akpabuyo, Cross River State; and Ode-Remo in Ogun State. Additional CTU personnel have also been deployed to key operational locations across the country to strengthen rapid response capability and improve security coverage.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to building operational capacity, strengthening partnerships and deploying strategic resources to tackle terrorism and other emerging security threats nationwide.