The Acting Chief Police Inspector (CPI), Kayode Egbetokun, has unveiled plans to create a Special Intervention Unit (SIU) aimed at addressing security concerns within the nation. Egbetokun made this announcement during a visit with the police management team to Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State at the Government House on Saturday.
He sought the assistance of the Kano state government to ensure the success of this initiative, particularly as Kano is being considered as one of the initial regions for its implementation.
“Your Excellency, I wish to inform you that the current police management has resolved to establish a unit known as the Special Intervention Unit (SIU) to rapidly address crises. In instances of turmoil or violent crime in Nigeria, we will have a dedicated unit ready for swift deployment to handle these challenges,” he explained.
Egbetokun emphasised the paramount importance of the new unit, asserting that its effectiveness would hinge upon the cooperation and backing of the Kano state government. He conveyed, “We will outfit the unit with highly trained personnel and competitive compensation to effectively tackle the pressing security issues. This special unit will undergo comprehensive training, be equipped with state-of-the-art resources, be appropriately attired, and receive enhanced remuneration. This will ensure their strong motivation to perform their duties.”
He then earnestly requested the cooperation and support of Governor Yusuf to facilitate the success of this endeavour, emphasising Kano’s selection as one of the pioneer states. “Governor, I implore you to acknowledge and consider this appeal from the Nigerian Police to Governor Yusuf.”
In response, the governor commended the current police management’s dedicated approach in combatting banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery across the country. Yusuf expressed gratitude for the notable improvement in policing within the state, which has significantly reduced various security challenges since the new administration took office.
He elaborated that the Kano state government would remain committed to supporting the police force in their efforts to perform optimally. “Kano state government is fully committed in this era. We took charge during a time of considerable insecurity challenges in the state. Issues such as thuggery, phone theft, armed robbery, kidnapping, and banditry were prevalent.”
“We ensured that all security agencies operating in Kano were coordinated, with particular emphasis on the Nigerian Police Force. Our collaboration with the police authorities has been highly productive,” Governor Yusuf affirmed.
He further assured Egbetokun that the state government would persist in their endeavours to achieve peace within the region and address the persistent security concerns. The governor also took the opportunity to request the IG’s support in their fight against drug abuse, armed robbery, phone theft, thuggery, and related issues. “We extend our appreciation for your ongoing efforts in curbing kidnapping, not only in Kano but throughout Nigeria,” Yusuf concluded.
