The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has completed a two-week specialised training programme for 55 officers of its Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU), aimed at strengthening intelligence gathering and tactical response capabilities.
The training, which ended on Saturday at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, was organised in partnership with the British High Commission, according to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu.
Among those present at the closing ceremony were Colonel Richard Hoyobe, Deputy Head of the British Defence Staff West Africa, representing the British High Commission; Assistant Inspector-General of Police Akoh Gabriel, who heads the Counter-Terrorism Unit; and Deputy Commissioner of Police Maina Mamman of the CTU.
Iniedu said the officers received certification in advanced intelligence operations and Close Quarter Battle (CQB), with the curriculum covering tactical mission planning and practical room-clearing techniques considered essential for counter-terrorism operations.
Representing the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, AIG Gabriel expressed appreciation to the British High Commission for its continued support in enhancing Nigeria’s security capacity through training initiatives.
He disclosed that over 140 CTU personnel had participated in British-supported training programmes in recent months, including 30 officers who underwent specialised training in Côte d’Ivoire and another 110 trained within Nigeria in intelligence gathering and tactical combat operations.
Gabriel urged the newly trained officers to apply their knowledge in combating terrorism, banditry and other security challenges while maintaining professionalism and respecting human rights in the discharge of their duties.