The Nigeria Police Force on Monday, commenced a 2-day training workshop for 52 detectives and operatives from Zone 12 Police Headquarters, Bauchi and Gombe State Commands.
Speaking during the commencement of the training, Idowu Owohunwa, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, (AIGP), Zone 12 Bauchi, said the training is part of the Inspector General of Police’s reform agenda to restore police investigative excellence.
According to him, the workshop is aimed to enhance the investigative skills of detectives and align their activities with global best practices.
Owohunwa noted that the workshop would cover topics such as criminal investigation processes, investigation skills and ethics, and sexual and gender-based violence.
“The trainees will be exposed to modern criminal investigation tools, extant criminal laws and procedures.
“The overall objective is to upscale the quality of police investigations, enhance public trust, and ensure that criminal justice delivery interest is served optimally,” he said.
On his part, DIG Sani Mohammed (rtd), Chairman, Bauchi State Anti Corruption Commission, said enhancing investigation by police detectives in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the challenges facing them.
“This could be done by providing regular training and equipment, establishing a robust anti-corruption mechanism, improving remuneration and welfare, upgrading infrastructure, and establishing forensic services,
“The Nigeria Police Force can improve the effectiveness of police investigations and promote justice and security in Nigeria,” he said
In his remark, Mr Abubakar Abdulhamid, Bauchi State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, explained that the training would empower the trainees on the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 (ACJA)
“ACJA is a game-changer in the country’s justice delivery system, benefiting both legal practitioners and non-lawyers alike.
“The ACJA’s importance cannot be overstated, as it has introduced significant reforms to the country’s criminal justice system,” said the Commissioner.
He said the workshop would dwell on the act which provisions have facilitated faster and more efficient trial processes, reduced delays, and promoted accountability within the justice system in the state.
The workshop featured 16 lectures delivered by experienced professionals, including serving and retired senior police officers, legal practitioners, human rights advocates and civil society organizations.