A major security conversation unfolded in Abuja on Monday as Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, called for stronger cooperation among West African countries to tackle rising cross-border crimes.
The push came during the 11th Meeting of Heads of INTERPOL National Central Bureaus (NCBs) for West Africa. The gathering brought together security leaders from 16 countries, alongside senior INTERPOL officials and regional security representatives.
As criminal networks continue to expand across borders, the meeting highlighted growing concerns about human trafficking, cybercrime, terrorism financing, arms trafficking, and money laundering.
Addressing participants at the Johnwood Hotel in Abuja, IGP Disu painted a concerning picture of the security challenges facing the region.
According to him, criminal groups no longer operate within one country. Instead, they move across borders and take advantage of weak coordination among nations.
In his address, Disu emphasized that success against organized crime would depend on stronger partnerships across West Africa.
He noted that traffickers, cyber fraudsters, arms dealers, and extremist groups share one common feature.
Moreover, he explained that no country can successfully defeat such threats alone. The police chief also highlighted several steps already being taken by Nigeria to improve regional security cooperation.
These include expanding INTERPOL’s I-24/7 secure communication system to border points and law enforcement institutions across the country.
As a result, officers stationed at border crossings can access critical intelligence in real time.
Furthermore, Disu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to Project GEMINI. The initiative focuses on verifying and uploading records into INTERPOL’s Stolen and Lost Travel Documents database.
In addition, he pointed to the West African Police Information System, popularly known as WAPIS, as proof that regional data sharing can produce meaningful results.
Looking ahead, the IGP outlined three key priorities.
These include wider access to INTERPOL databases across West African borders, faster joint security responses, and stronger trust among member countries.
He warned that technology alone cannot solve security problems.Without trust and transparency, he explained, even advanced systems may fail to deliver expected results.
Meanwhile, the leader of the INTERPOL delegation commended Nigeria for hosting the event.
The official also described the attendance of all 16 NCB heads as a strong sign of commitment to regional security cooperation.
He challenged participants to move beyond discussions and embrace practical actions that can be measured.
Furthermore, he urged security agencies to shift from reacting to crimes after they occur to preventing them before damage is done.
The West Africa crime alliance discussion comes at a time when regional governments are increasing efforts against transnational criminal activities.
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