The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has reaffirmed his administration's strong dedication to building the capacity and improving the welfare of personnel within the Nigeria Police Force. This commitment was highlighted during a specialized training program in Bayelsa State, aimed at strengthening officers' psychological resilience.
Mental Health Training for a Professional Police Force
Represented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, CP Iyama Daniel, the IGP addressed officers at a program organized by the Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF). The training, held on 9 January 2026, focused on the theme “Integrated Mental Health, Trauma-Informed Care and Emergency Response.”
IGP Egbetokun emphasized that officers who are mentally sound and emotionally balanced are better equipped to serve the public with the required professionalism, empathy, and restraint. He described the training as both timely and strategic, given the complex security challenges that often expose officers to traumatic experiences.
In his remarks, CP Iyama Daniel urged participants to see mental wellness as a strength, not a weakness. “It’s the foundation upon which people build their lives, relationships, and dreams,” he stated. He encouraged officers to apply the knowledge gained and become peer resource persons within the command.
Strengthening Inter-Agency Synergy in the South-South
In a related move to bolster security, the Bayelsa State Police Command hosted a high-level meeting with the Commander of Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), Rear Admiral O.B.F. Oladipo, and component commanders from various security agencies. The gathering sought to enhance inter-agency collaboration and operational synergy in the fight against crime in the South-South region.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, the participating agencies included:
- Nigeria Army, Navy, and Air Force
- Department of State Services (DSS)
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
- Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS)
- Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS)
- Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA)
- Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)
The collaboration is aimed at ensuring more effective policing and enhanced security across Bayelsa State and the wider region.
Cross River Governor Reaffirms Security Partnerships
Meanwhile, in Calabar, Cross River State Governor, Bassey Edet Otu, reiterated his administration's commitment to strengthening security and deepening strategic partnerships. He made this known while receiving the 25th Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, on a courtesy visit.
Governor Otu described the visit as a “homecoming,” noting the Naval Chief's previous service in the state. He stressed the importance of sustained collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, citing the state's strategic coastal location which makes security cooperation vital for protecting lives, investments, and national assets.
The Governor assured the naval chief of the state government's readiness to support federal security efforts through coordinated action, improved maritime infrastructure, and the deployment of state resources where necessary.
