The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) office in Abuja, Nigeria has directed that specialised detective training is now mandatory for all personnel attached to the investigations arm of the Force.
This is disclosed in a circular with policy directives issued at exactly 2 pm on January 5, 2025, to various police commands and units in the country, stating that compliance is with immediate effect.
It noted that the policy directive followed “INGENPOL conference with heads of Investigations/Intelligence departments/sections/units held at Abuja on 11/11/2024”.
The policy directives were issued to “enhance professionalism in investigations, intelligence gathering, maintain accountability with the objective of attaining proficiency, international best practices, provision of qualitative services in investigations and detection of crimes”.
According to the circular, officers from the rank of constable to Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) who have undergone the compulsory training programme are to be certified and addressed as detectives.
It listed examples of how officers should be addressed as Detective PC or Detective CSP.
Also, the office of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, directed that all personnel in the investigations departments, sections and units must undergo annual detective workshop to be organised by the Force.
“In like manner, police personnel in Intelligence Department must undergo training programmes at the force intelligence training school in Kwara State,” it said.