Nigeria Strengthens Regional Security as Police Partner with INTERPOL for Advanced Data Sharing
In a significant step towards enhancing internal security and law enforcement collaboration, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has strengthened its partnership with INTERPOL. The move aims to boost security through improved data-sharing capabilities within the region.
On April 8, 2025, the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, NPM, who also serves as Chairman of the West African Chiefs of Police Committee (WAPCCO), hosted a delegation from INTERPOL.
The team was led by Mr. Cyril Gout, the Executive Director of Police Services at INTERPOL, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. The meeting was centered on enhancing the cooperation between the Nigeria Police Force and INTERPOL.
As part of the collaboration, the Ministry of Police Affairs officially took over the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) from INTERPOL on behalf of the Nigerian Government. The system is now housed within the Nigeria Police Force and will be instrumental in strengthening the region’s security framework.
The WAPIS system is designed to streamline data management practices, improve data collection efforts, and foster enhanced information sharing among law enforcement agencies across the West African Sub-region and Nigeria. By harmonizing police information systems, it promises to be a valuable tool in the fight against crime.
In his remarks, the Inspector-General of Police praised INTERPOL’s crucial role in international security cooperation. He emphasized the importance of such partnerships in tackling complex global challenges. Dr. Egbetokun assured full cooperation in implementing the WAPIS program in Nigeria and across West Africa.
He further stated: “The Nigeria Police Force is committed to leveraging all three levels of WAPIS to their maximum potential and remains confident that WAPIS will be a game-changer in Nigeria’s fight against crime.”
The successful integration of WAPIS will undoubtedly enhance the NPF’s ability to combat crime, support regional security efforts, and further solidify international law enforcement cooperation.
