Navy, Police Deepen Intelligence Sharing, Boost Maritime Training
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has reaffirmed plans to deepen intelligence sharing and expand joint training with the Nigeria Police Force as part of efforts to strengthen maritime security and combat evolving threats across the country.
Abbas disclosed this in Abuja while receiving the Inspector-General of Police, Ridwan Olatunji Disu, during a courtesy visit to Naval Headquarters, today in Abuja
He emphasised that Nigeria’s complex security environment demands sustained inter-agency synergy anchored on intelligence-led operations.
“No single service can address the nation’s security challenges alone. Our operations must be intelligence-driven, and collaboration remains critical to achieving lasting results,” the naval chief said.
Abbas highlighted existing coordination mechanisms, including the Maritime Crime Investigation Desk located in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Yenagoa, noting that the platform—linked with INTERPOL—remains central to tackling maritime crimes through intelligence integration and joint investigations.
He called for stronger utilisation of such frameworks, particularly in real-time information sharing and access to global crime databases, to enhance operational efficiency.
The naval chief also offered expanded training support for police personnel, especially in marine policing and technical operations, leveraging the Navy’s specialised training facilities.
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He further proposed structured collaboration that would allow suspects apprehended in maritime operations to be handed over to the Police Marine Unit for seamless investigation and prosecution.
Earlier, the Inspector-General of Police, Ridwan Olatunji Disu, commended the Nigerian Navy for its sustained operational support, stressing the need to scale up cooperation amid growing security challenges.
“We do not have another country. The terrain is vast—land, rivers and maritime spaces and it requires all agencies working together to secure it effectively,” he said.
Disu disclosed that the Police would intensify intelligence-led policing, expand joint operations and increase training quotas for officers across military institutions to enhance interoperability.
“We want our officers to train together and operate seamlessly. Intelligence gathering is being strengthened, and we are committed to acting decisively on credible information,” he added.
The IGP also acknowledged concerns over misconduct within the ranks, noting that ongoing reforms would prioritise discipline, accountability and professionalism.
Both security chiefs agreed that sustained intelligence integration, joint training and coordinated field operations remain key to addressing Nigeria’s multi-dimensional security threats, particularly within the maritime domain.
The meeting also reviewed broader areas of cooperation, including logistics support and security planning ahead of the Nigerian Navy’s forthcoming 70th anniversary celebrations, expected to attract international participants.
By PRNigeria
