Jane Salihu
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), in partnership with the British High Commission, has concluded a two-week intensive training programme aimed at enhancing the operational capacity of personnel in its Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU), with 55 officers graduating as certified intelligence analysts and tactical close quarter combatants.
The graduation ceremony, held at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, marked the completion of advanced courses in Intelligence and Close Quarter Battle (CQB), designed to strengthen officers’ capabilities in tactical operational planning, intelligence gathering, and practical room clearance techniques crucial to counter-terrorism operations.
The event was attended by the Deputy Head of the British Defence Staff West Africa, Colonel Richard Hoyobe, who represented the British High Commission, alongside the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Counter-Terrorism Unit, AIG Akoh Gabriel, and Deputy Commissioner of Police, CTU, DCP Maina Mamman.
Speaking on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, AIG Gabriel commended the British High Commission for its sustained support in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture through strategic capacity-building initiatives.
He noted that the collaboration has continued to yield positive results, revealing that more than 140 CTU personnel have benefited from British-supported training programmes in recent months. According to him, 30 officers received specialised training in Côte d’Ivoire, while another 110 were trained locally in intelligence and tactical combat operations.
AIG Gabriel urged the graduating officers to deploy their newly acquired knowledge in tackling terrorism, banditry and other emerging security challenges while maintaining professionalism and respecting human rights in the discharge of their duties.
He also praised the Inspector-General of Police for prioritising personnel development and institutional capacity building, describing the initiative as a demonstration of the Force’s commitment to improving operational effectiveness.
The ceremony featured the presentation of certificates to the graduates, officially recognising them as certified Intelligence Analysts and Tactical Close Quarter Combatants.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to continuous training and strategic partnerships aimed at equipping its personnel with the skills required to safeguard lives and property across the country.
