AS Nigeria join the rest of the world to celebrate the new year, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, has assured the citizens of tight security nationwide.

A statement yesterday in Abuja by Force Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Olabisi Kolawole said the police was poised to ensuring a safe and secure environment, adding that security agencies were ready for the onerous task.

The statement urged screening and surveillance at places of worship as well as other vulnerable areas.

“ The Force equally advises operators of motor parks, shopping malls and recreational centres to work very closely with the police and other security agencies as they strive to strengthen general security in their respective facilities.”

While felicitating with the people, Arase said the security situation in the country at the moment called for extra vigilance, adding that it behooves on all Nigerians to contribute their quota towards bettering the situation.

As he directed Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs) and commanders to play their part, the IGP commended “the courage and gallantry of officers of the Force for their tireless services in protecting lives and property during the year, insisting that police personnel must continue to be civil in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities in consonance with the force’s “vision and mission.”

The statement read in part: “To ensure a secure, peaceful and hitch-free nation-wide New Year celebration, the IGP has directed all Zonal AIGs and State Command Commissioners of Police to ensure an effective and efficient deployment of all operational manpower and tools at the disposal of their respective Commands. He has further directed the AIG Border Patrol to ensure that the nation’s borders are effectively manned to prevent any cross border crimes”.