The Nigeria Police Force commenced the training of 10,000 officers on Thursday. The programme targets election security management ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu formally declared the five-day exercise open at the Nigeria Police Resource Centre in Jabi, Abuja. The Force is collaborating with the Nigeria Police Trust Fund on the initiative.
The programme covers election security management, crowd control, conflict prevention, rules of engagement, human rights, intelligence gathering and lawful response to election-related incidents. Organisers are implementing it across designated centres nationwide.
The first phase brings together officers from 18 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Officials designed the sessions to ensure uniform operational standards before full deployment.
Disu addressed the participants and stressed that security forms the foundation of a credible election. He directed officers to protect voters, electoral officials and the process without fear or favour. He further instructed personnel to remain neutral, professional and accountable throughout the electoral cycle.
The Inspector-General also warned against political violence, voter intimidation, ballot-box snatching and vote-buying. He stated that offenders would face arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law. In addition, he announced a dedicated 24-hour complaints line for members of the public to report any misconduct by officers on election duty.
Alhaji Mohammed Sheidu, Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, spoke at the event. He reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to supporting police preparedness through training, operational equipment and mobility. Sheidu noted that the initiative aims to produce officers who are disciplined, impartial and responsive during the electoral process.
The Force urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to campaign peacefully. It also encouraged the media and civil society organisations to verify information before dissemination.
