By Ayo Kehinde
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered a nationwide security alert and the strategic deployment of police personnel and operational assets to guarantee a safe, peaceful, and crime-free Christmas and New Year celebration across the country.
The directive, issued as part of the Nigeria Police Force’s proactive Yuletide security strategy, mandates all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and State Commissioners of Police to intensify patrols, visibility policing, and intelligence-led operations.
These measures are designed to build public confidence before, during, and after the festive period.
Specialised police units, including the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Command, and the Intelligence Response Team, have been placed on heightened operational readiness.
Other units activated for the season include the Special Tactical Squad, Special Intervention Squad, Highway Patrol, Marine Police, and the Police Airwing.
A statement signed on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, noted that the deployment will prioritise places of worship, recreational centres, markets, parks, and event venues.
High-density public spaces, transport terminals, highways, and critical national infrastructure will also receive increased security attention.
Additionally, patrol and surveillance teams have been stationed along inter-state routes to prevent road-related crimes, traffic congestion, and accidents.
The Inspector-General charged all deployed officers to remain firm but courteous in the discharge of their duties, stressing professionalism and respect for citizens.
He also directed police commands to sustain raids on identified blackspots, forests, and criminal hideouts, while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure comprehensive security coverage.
While wishing Nigerians a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year, Egbetokun urged citizens to remain vigilant, celebrate responsibly, and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through available emergency lines.
