The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has again reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to providing adequate security to boost economic activities in the marine and blue economy sector of the country.

Egbetokun made this known on Tuesday when he played host to the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, and his delegation at the IGP Smart Conference Room, Louis Edet House, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

In a statement, Force spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, revealed that the visit also had in attendance the Force Management Team and other senior officers.

In his address, Ukeyima expressed his appreciation to the IGP for the warm reception and commended the longstanding relationship between the Nigerian Shippers’ Council and the police. He emphasised the crucial role the force plays in supporting the council’s regulatory and enforcement operations, including the effective implementation of the Nigerian Port Manual. Ukeyima further noted that the partnership has significantly enhanced transparency and operational efficiency, particularly along the port corridors. He therefore sought continued collaboration with the force in enforcing compliance, bolstering surveillance efforts, and supporting the council’s monitoring teams across the country.

In his response, the IGP appreciated the visit and acknowledged the important role the council plays in driving national economic growth. He reassured the delegation of the continued support of the force in sustaining and deepening the collaboration, particularly in maintaining security within port environments and ensuring smooth enforcement operations.

The IGP affirmed the readiness of the force to work more closely with the council’s joint task teams to achieve both organisations’ shared and distinct mandates in service of national development.

THE GUARDIAN