The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving internal security and enhancing grassroots policing with the inauguration of a state-of-the-art smart police station in Katampe, Abuja.
The facility, constructed by the Nigeria Police Trust Fund and officially handed over to the Nigeria Police Force on Wednesday, is designed to improve operational efficiency and foster stronger police-community relations within the Federal Capital Territory.
Additional smart police stations are expected to be commissioned in Kogi, Enugu, and other parts of the country in the coming days.
Representing the Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Anuma Nla, described the project as a symbol of the government’s determination to uphold law and order at the community level.
“It embodies our collective resolve to entrench law and order, improve community-police relations, and ensure that every citizen can live without fear,” Nla said.“It stands as a beacon of hope, a pledge of protection, and a commitment to service delivery at the grassroots.”
He urged officers posted to the new station to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and respect for human rights, emphasising the importance of prompt, fair, and accountable policing.
Nla also reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of the Nigeria Police Force in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This police station is a clear demonstration of our resolve to ensure a safer and more secure Nigeria,” he added.
Underscoring the importance of integrating modern technology into policing, he called on the Inspector General of Police to deploy digitally trained officers to the facility for optimal utilization of its capabilities.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, Mohammed Sheidu, described the smart station as a “mission statement for nation-building.”
According to him, the new facility features perimeter fencing, CCTV surveillance, overhead water tanks to ensure uninterrupted supply, and a 30-kilowatt off-grid solar power system made possible through a partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency.
“This is not just another police station,” Sheidu stated.
“It is a secure, efficient, and community-oriented policing hub built to meet the evolving standards of law enforcement in today’s Nigeria.”
He also announced the launch of a six-man rank-and-file quarters project aimed at improving police officers’ living conditions.
“No officer should have to face the burden of duty while contending with inadequate living conditions,” he said.
“This is a tangible step towards boosting morale and ensuring our personnel, especially at the front lines, have the stability to perform their roles with excellence.”
Sheidu concluded by stressing the importance of accountability and judicious use of public resources, urging officers to maintain the new facility with professionalism and pride.
