To ensure internal security, it is crucial to enhance police capacity. This was the position of the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, Mr. Mohammed Sheidu.

Speaking on Wednesday at the commissioning of the newly built modern Divisional Police Headquarters in Katampe, Mpape area of Abuja, Sheidu further pledged the Nigerian government’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of the Nigerian Police Force as one of the ways of prioritizing internal security across the country.

The structure, constructed by the Nigeria Police Trust Fund under the leadership of Sheidu, was a departure from a conventional police station in size, standard, and facilities.

It comprises a perimeter fence, gatehouse, CCTV surveillance, and a sentry post for enhanced security. Other facilities include a 30kVA inverter solar power unit, installed to provide uninterrupted power as well as reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

According to the Executive Secretary, the unit was made available through a partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed for a joint mandate to power police stations nationwide.

Also provided for the new police station are a borehole and an overhead tank for uninterrupted water access, integrated firefighting systems for safety and regulatory compliance, as well as functional landscaping and ample parking for a professional operating environment.

“This police station is a clear demonstration of the government’s resolve to ensure a safer, more secure Nigeria,” Sheidu added.

In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary described the facility as a major milestone in the collective effort to strengthen internal security and safeguard lives and property across the country.

“The completion of this police station, delivered through the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, is a clear testament to the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment, under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, to promote safer communities and enhance police operations.”

He disclosed that, from available records, the rapidly growing Mpape community had for a long time felt the pressing need for a befitting and functional police facility. “Today, that long-standing need has been met,” he added.

He informed the elated police officers present at the occasion that the facility will not only serve as a professional and conducive workspace for the officers but also as a symbol of progress, peace, and partnership between the police and the people.

“The Nigeria Police Trust Fund continues to be instrumental in transforming the operational landscape of the Nigerian Police Force by bridging critical resource gaps. The successful completion of this project here in Mpape highlights their resolve and strategic vision in providing infrastructure that supports effective policing.”

According to him, the building is a statement in a bid to entrench law and order, improve community and police relations, as well as ensure that every citizen lives without fear.

“It stands as a beacon of hope, a pledge of protection, and a commitment to service delivery at the grassroots.”

Sheidu, therefore, charged the community and officers of the Police Force to protect the facility.

“To the officers and personnel who will serve here, this is your new base of operation. Use it well; uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and community engagement.

“Let this station be known for prompt response, fairness, and respect for human rights. You are the face of justice in this community,” he said.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police Affairs, Dr. Anuma Ogbonnaya Nila, who represented the Minister, applauded the Police Trust Fund for its strategic interventions in various areas. He added that such interventions were crucial in enhancing security and also boosting the morale of officers.

Also speaking, Senator Binos Dauda Yaroe, who represented the chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, stated that such initiatives were needed to tackle insecurity and other forms of criminality in local communities. He said the parliament was proud to have initiated the Act that birthed the Police Trust Fund.

The representative of the Inspector General of Police, AIG Victor Olaiya, urged police officers to ensure adequate maintenance of the facility at all times, especially by keeping it clean so that, in years to come, it will remain as attractive as it looked at the commissioning.

He equally charged them to ensure professionalism and fairness in their operations and conduct, as such virtues breed public trust and mutual respect.

Community leaders and members were excited about the building, as they extended their gratitude through the traditional ruler of the community.