Nigeria Police, British High Commission Train 55 Counter-Terrorism Operatives in Advanced Intelligence, Combat Skills
IGP Disu charges graduates to deploy new expertise against terrorism, banditry while upholding human rights
By Pan Afric Reporters
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), in partnership with the British High Commission, has graduated 55 Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) operatives after a two-week intensive training programme on advanced intelligence gathering and Close Quarter Battle (CQB), aimed at strengthening the country’s capacity to combat terrorism, banditry and other emerging security threats.
The training, held at the Peacekeeping Hall of the Force Headquarters in Abuja, culminated in the certification of the officers as Intelligence Analysts and Tactical Close Quarter Combatants, reinforcing ongoing efforts by the Police to enhance operational effectiveness through international collaboration.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Nigeria Police Force and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, on July 25, 2026.
The graduation ceremony was attended by senior officials from both Nigeria and the United Kingdom, including Colonel Richard Hoyobe, representing the British High Commission and serving as Deputy Head of the British Defence Staff, West Africa; the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Counter-Terrorism Unit, AIG Akoh Gabriel; and Deputy Commissioner of Police Maina Mamman.
The comprehensive programme equipped participants with advanced skills in intelligence analysis, tactical operational planning and practical room clearance techniques, regarded as critical competencies for modern counter-terrorism operations.
Representing the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, AIG Gabriel expressed appreciation to the British High Commission for its sustained support in strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture through capacity-building initiatives.
“We deeply appreciate the unwavering commitment of the British High Commission to strengthening Nigeria’s national security framework. Partnerships like this help us build a stronger defence against shared global threats,” Gabriel said.
He disclosed that the collaboration had already benefited more than 140 Counter-Terrorism Unit personnel in recent months, including 30 officers trained in Côte d’Ivoire and 110 others trained locally in intelligence gathering and tactical combat operations.
AIG Gabriel charged the newly trained officers to apply their knowledge in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges while maintaining professionalism and respect for the rule of law.
“You must put your newly acquired skills to practical use by leading the fight against terrorism, banditry and other security threats while upholding professionalism and respect for human rights,” he urged.
He also commended Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu for prioritising personnel development through strategic training and international partnerships.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to the participants, officially recognising them as certified Intelligence Analysts and Tactical Close Quarter Combatants.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to continuous training and professional development of its personnel, noting that enhanced operational capacity remains essential to improving public safety and effectively responding to evolving security threats across the country.
