The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a nationwide deployment of police personnel and operational assets to ensure a safe and peaceful Christmas and New Year celebration across the country.
In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the IGP directed all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and State Commissioners of Police to intensify patrols, visibility policing, intelligence-led operations, and community engagement throughout the festive period.
According to the statement, specialised units including the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Command, Intelligence Response Team, Special Tactical Squad, Special Intervention Squad, Highway Patrol, Marine Police, and the Airwing have been placed on heightened operational readiness.
The deployment will cover places of worship, recreational centres, markets, parks, event venues, transport terminals, highways, critical national infrastructure, and other high-density public spaces.
Additional patrol and surveillance teams have also been activated along major expressways and inter-state routes to prevent criminal activities, traffic disorder, and road accidents.
The IGP also directed Commands to sustain raids on identified blackspots, forests, criminal hideouts, and flashpoints, while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure comprehensive security coverage.
While wishing Nigerians a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year, the Police urged citizens to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through available emergency lines.
The Nigeria Police Force assured the public of its commitment to maintaining peace, safety, and security throughout the Yuletide season and beyond.
(Editor: Roluke Ogundele)
