Seadogs, Others Seek New Policing Strategies In FCT
National Association of Seadogs (NAS), alongside stakeholders in Nigeria’s security sector, has renewed calls for new policing strategies to address rising insecurity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) The call was made at a Town Hall meeting on addressing insecurity through a decentralised security architecture, organised by NAS, Galleon Bay Deck, Gwarimpa, Abuja, in collaboration with the Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA). Speakers at the meetingcalled for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s policing system, including decentralised policing and stronger collaboration among security agencies, as a strategy to take critical steps toward addressing rising insecurity, especially in Abuja. The summit, held under the theme “Decentralized Security Architecture: Defining Federal and State Roles in State Policing,” brought together security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as well as security experts, civil society organisations and policy advocates to examine gaps in Nigeria’s centralized security structure and their implications for public safety, particularly in the nation’s capital. Participants noted that despite governors being constitutionally recognised as chief security officers of their states, real control of the police remains concentrated at the federal level, limiting effective and timely responses to local security threats. They called for the decentralisation of policing and the formal integration of community security councils, traditional institutions and residents’ associations into the security architecture, stressing that local communities are best positioned to provide early warning signals and actionable intelligence. Speaking at the summit, police historian and lead paper presenter, Uche Bamah, said meaningful policing reform must recognise the importance of community-driven security models, adding that trust between citizens and law enforcement remains a significant factor in tackling insecurity. Discussions also highlighted the need for improved police welfare, enhanced training and greater investment in modern technology. Bamah pointed to survey data showing that over 70 per cent of respondents believe the use of technology in policing strengthens accountability and protects human rights. He recommended that any constitutional amendment must mandate independent state-level police oversight commissions, insulated from governors and other political officeholders, with representation from civil society, the judiciary, and professional bodies. He also backed decentralisation with clear legal boundaries and strong laws, noting that while human rights abuse remains a significant concern, the legal framework must clearly define jurisdictional limits, command structures, and use-of-force rules. NAS member, Samuel Abhulimen, alongside Engr. Faith Nwadishi, Executive Director of the Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA), emphasised that strong legal frameworks and independent oversight must back policing reform to prevent abuse and ensure professionalism. The Town Hall called for swift policy action, clear delineation of federal and state responsibilities, and sustained stakeholder engagement to build an accountable, community-focused security system capable of responding effectively to insecurity in the FCT and across Nigeria. Division crime officer at Gwarimpa Police Station, Supol Bature, in his short address, said Gwarimpa is safe, noting that throughout January, the Station has not recorded major crimes, kidnappings, or any incidents. He said, “Security is something we should all be interested in. It is not something that only the government or citizens alone can do. It requires collaboration, which is why we are happy to work with NAS.”
