By Monsurat Abisoye
The South-West Coordinating Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), Adegoke Fayoade, has assured Nigerians that abducted schoolchildren and their teachers will be rescued safely, saying security agencies are working round the clock to secure their release.
Speaking on Monday during an official visit to the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja, Fayoade said coordinated efforts involving all relevant security agencies and the government were underway to ensure the victims regained their freedom as quickly as possible.
Addressing reports of ransom demands by the kidnappers, the DIG maintained that the Nigeria Police Force does not negotiate or discuss ransom payments, stressing that its priority remains the safe recovery of the abductees.
Fayoade said his visit was aimed at reviewing operational strategies, strengthening supervision and engaging officers on improved approaches to tackling emerging security challenges. He added that his observations would be submitted to the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to guide further action and policy decisions.
He identified manpower shortages, officers’ welfare and logistics as major challenges facing the Force, noting that ongoing recruitment exercises and welfare initiatives are intended to address them.
The DIG also highlighted the Force’s increasing use of technology, including a centralised data system and artificial intelligence, to enhance intelligence gathering and criminal investigations in line with the Inspector-General’s vision of an intelligence-led, technology-driven police service.
He urged officers to remain professional, committed and respectful of human rights, while calling for stronger collaboration between the police, stakeholders and the public, saying mutual trust and cooperation are vital to effective policing and national security.