Former Police Chief Kayode Egbetokun calls for multi-level policing and networked security to tackle modern threats.
Nigeria needs a fundamental restructuring of its security architecture because traditional methods can no longer solve growing national challenges. Dr. Kayode Egbetokun delivered this warning during a keynote address in Ibadan, highlighting that modern threats require urgent strategic changes.
The event took place at Lead City University during the 20th International Conference and General Assembly of the Society for Peace Studies and Practice. Scholars, policymakers, and security experts gathered at the institution to discuss global security dynamics and emerging transnational threats.
According to information published by The Sun Nigeria, the former police chief stressed that contemporary dangers involve complex criminal networks that operate across multiple borders without relying on conventional tactics.
Restructuring Nigeria Security Architecture
Dr. Kayode Egbetokun stated that cybercrime, terrorism, arms trafficking, and disinformation are no longer isolated issues. He advocated for a networked security approach involving government institutions, regional bodies, private sectors, and local communities.
National borders no longer restrict modern criminal activities. Financial transactions cross jurisdictions instantly, while criminal networks recruit members globally through digital platforms and modern communication technologies.
The former Inspector-General of Police noted that the state and its armed forces remain essential, but they cannot operate effectively in isolation against modern transnational criminal enterprises and digital threats.
Policing a Population of 230 Million
Addressing national policing reforms, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun argued that a single federal police structure for 230 million people is completely ungovernable. He called for a constitutionally defined multi-level policing system.
This decentralized system would incorporate federal, state, and community structures with clear responsibilities, adequate funding mechanisms, and strict accountability to prevent potential abuses of devolved power.
Policing poverty with bullets remains a losing strategy, according to the former police chief, who urged leaders to address socioeconomic challenges that make vulnerable youths susceptible to extremist recruitment.
Human Security and Governance Priority
A secure state with insecure citizens is not truly secure, the keynote speaker warned. He emphasized that the protection and wellbeing of citizens must remain at the heart of national security policy.
Security should be measured by whether citizens have access to food, healthcare, employment, and education rather than the mere size of security institutions or military sophistication.
Drawing from his experience at the highest level of security management, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun stated firmly that there is no military solution to a governance problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who called for the restructuring of Nigeria security architecture?
Former Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, called for a fundamental restructuring of the security architecture during an event in Ibadan.
Why did the former IGP say the federal police structure is inadequate?
Dr. Kayode Egbetokun stated that a single federal police structure for a population of 230 million people is ungovernable and requires a multi-level policing system.
Where did Dr. Kayode Egbetokun deliver his keynote address?
He delivered the keynote address at the 20th International Conference and General Assembly of the Society for Peace Studies and Practice held at Lead City University, Ibadan.
What is networked security according to the former police chief?
Networked security involves collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, international bodies, universities, the private sector, and local communities to combat transnational threats.
