RismadarVoice Reporters, July 25, 2026
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), in partnership with the British High Commission, has concluded a two-week specialised training programme aimed at enhancing the operational capacity of officers of the Force Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) in intelligence gathering and close-quarter combat.
A total of 55 CTU personnel participated in the intensive training, which was held at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the Nigeria Police Force’s response to terrorism, banditry and other emerging security threats.
The graduation ceremony attracted senior security officials and representatives of the British Government, including Colonel Richard Hoyobe, Deputy Head of the British Defence Staff for West Africa, who represented the British High Commission. Also in attendance were the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Counter-Terrorism Unit, AIG Akoh Gabriel, and the Deputy Commissioner of Police, CTU, DCP Maina Mamman.
The training focused on advanced intelligence analysis and Close Quarter Battle (CQB) operations, equipping participants with practical skills in tactical operational planning, room clearance procedures and other specialised techniques considered essential for modern counter-terrorism operations.
Speaking on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Olatunji Disu, AIG Gabriel expressed appreciation to the British High Commission for its sustained support towards strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture through capacity-building initiatives.
He described the collaboration as a strategic partnership that continues to improve the operational readiness of the Nigeria Police Force in addressing complex security challenges and combating transnational threats.
According to him, the latest exercise is part of a broader training partnership through which more than 140 officers of the Counter-Terrorism Unit have benefited from British-supported programmes in recent months.
He disclosed that 30 officers recently underwent specialised counter-terrorism training in Côte d’Ivoire, while 110 personnel received advanced intelligence and tactical combat instruction within Nigeria.
AIG Gabriel urged the newly certified officers to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the training in carrying out their operational responsibilities, particularly in tackling terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes across the country.
He also reminded the officers to conduct all operations with professionalism, discipline and strict adherence to the rule of law and internationally recognised human rights standards.
The senior police officer further commended the Inspector-General of Police for prioritising continuous professional development and investing in specialised training programmes designed to improve the effectiveness of police personnel in confronting evolving security threats.
At the end of the programme, the participants were presented with certificates recognising them as certified Intelligence Analysts and Tactical Close Quarter Combatants, having completed the advanced training modules.
The Nigeria Police Force said it would continue to invest in the training and retraining of its personnel through strategic partnerships with international organisations and friendly nations as part of efforts to enhance operational efficiency and create a safer environment for all Nigerians.
