In a bold move to improve grassroots security and community policing, the Nigeria Police Force, through its Force Intelligence Department (FID), in partnership a Non Governmental Organization, the Eagle Crime Awareness and Prevention Initiative (ECAPI), has launched a three-day Community Intelligence Gathering Training in Ikeja, Lagos.
The programme, endorsed by the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, seeks to equip both law enforcement officers and civilian stakeholders with advanced skills in intelligence gathering, analysis, and dissemination for crime prevention and public safety.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, ECAPI Founder and President, Ambassador Eniola Adam Samuel, who also serves as a Chief Superintendent of Police, described the initiative as a strategic tool to strengthen collaboration between police and the public, foster trust, improve response times, and reduce crime rates across communities.
“This training will produce Special Private Detectives—Community Intelligence Agents—who will act as vital links between law enforcement and the grassroots,” Samuel explained. “They’ll be equipped to provide real-time, high-quality intelligence that supports proactive policing.”
Ambassador Samuel praised the Inspector General’s vision for modern, community-driven security architecture, noting the significance of public-private partnerships in achieving shared national security objectives.
National Training Coordinator, Mr. Reagan Onuoha, described the initiative as transformational, calling it a “national intervention” that empowers everyday citizens—religious leaders, artisans, traders, and youth influencers—to become trusted informants and “watchful eyes and ears” within their localities.
“The Community Intelligence Agents, CIA, trained here will be game-changers,” Onuoha stated. “They’ll serve as bridges between the police and their communities, helping detect threats early, reduce violence, and build a more security-conscious society.”
The training Is set to conclude this weekend, with organisers confident that the knowledge gained will usher in a new era of people-powered policing and improved community safety nationwide.
Reporting by Taoreed Abdullahi