The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, recently stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing the diverse security threats that endanger the nation. Speaking at an Interagency Seminar for Participants of Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) Course 8/2024 in Asokoro, Abuja, the Minister highlighted that this approach would significantly contribute to effectively safeguarding citizens against both internal and external attacks.
Tunji-Ojo, who engaged in discussions with various stakeholders in the country’s security system, emphasized that such collaboration would allow each agency to contribute its unique areas of expertise, intelligence, and resources. According to the Minister, this cooperative effort would enhance counterterrorism and homeland security endeavors, surpassing what each agency could achieve independently.
He stated, “Addressing these threats alone poses challenges for a single agency. Hence, interagency collaboration at all levels is crucial for addressing national security threats. Joint endeavors among agencies often involve intelligence gathering and analysis.”
“I firmly believe that with the committed support of President Bola Tinubu and the determination of each one of us, the challenges we face today will soon become history. Every one of us has a role to play.”
Tunji-Ojo also emphasized the need for federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to collaborate in sharing intelligence and investigating potential threats to prevent terrorist attacks.
Other participants in the seminar included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu (represented by Major-General P.P Malla); Chief of Defence Operations, Major-General Emeka Onumajuru; Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Army, Hon. Mamudu Abdullah; Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Professor Abubakar O. Sulaiman; and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun (represented by Deputy IG Frank Uba).
The seminar centered on addressing key security challenges facing the nation and developing actionable solutions to combat these multi-dimensional threats.