The Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Department of Logistics and Supply and supervising the South-East geopolitical zone, Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, has commenced a strategic security assessment in Enugu State, as part of renewed efforts to strengthen policing operations and address rising security concerns across the region.
The assessment, which also featured high-level stakeholder engagements, is part of a broader initiative by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at reinforcing security coordination across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
Speaking during the engagement held at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess, Agbani Road, Enugu, the DIG said the exercise was designed to evaluate existing security structures, identify operational gaps and develop improved response strategies to emerging threats.
He explained that security management remains a continuous process due to the evolving nature of criminal activities across the country.
“Security management is a continuous process because threats are constantly evolving and emerging. While one challenge may be effectively addressed today, another could arise tomorrow. Security therefore remains an ongoing responsibility,” he said.
Onwuemelie noted that the deployment of six Deputy Inspectors-General of Police to the geopolitical zones was intended to strengthen operational oversight and enhance engagement with stakeholders at the regional level.
He added that although the DIGs would physically remain in their assigned zones for two weeks, the security assignment itself would continue beyond the period.
“The timeline for our physical presence in the various geopolitical zones is two weeks, but the effort to ensure security across the length and breadth of the country remains indefinite. We must continue to do what is necessary to enhance security even after we return to Abuja,” he stated.
The DIG identified kidnapping, armed robbery, rape, murder and violent agitation as some of the key security challenges confronting the South-East, noting that consultations with stakeholders would help shape a more effective response framework.
“I have only laid the framework for discussions. I am yet to complete my engagement with stakeholders and strategic officers. The outcome of those engagements will form part of the strategies we will develop,” he said.
He further stressed that effective security planning requires a clear definition of objectives, resources and implementation strategies.
“Strategy development is about ends, ways and means. Everything is placed on the table. We identify the outcomes we want to achieve, the resources required—both human and material—and the approaches needed to achieve those outcomes. Whatever can help us address the security challenges and achieve the desired results will be considered, provided the necessary resources, skills and expertise are available,” he explained.
Onwuemelie also warned criminal elements operating in the region to desist from illegal activities, assuring that the police would intensify efforts to prevent, detect and prosecute crime.
“Crime is not good for either the perpetrator or the victim. We will do our best to prevent all forms of crime, especially violent crimes. Where prevention is not possible, we will ensure that crimes are detected, investigated, and prosecuted. Anyone who violates the law by committing crime will be brought to justice,” he warned.
Earlier, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, described the visit as a significant demonstration of the commitment of the Force leadership to strengthening operational effectiveness, personnel welfare, accountability and community-oriented policing.
“This visit is timely, significant, and reflective of the commitment of the Force Management under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police to strengthening operational effectiveness, enhancing personnel welfare, deepening accountability and promoting people-centred policing across the country,” Giwa said.
The police commissioner commended the DIG’s hands-on leadership style and unwavering support for commands within the South-East, noting that the engagement would provide an opportunity to address security challenges and improve service delivery.
“We particularly appreciate your hands-on leadership style, strategic guidance and unwavering support to Commands within the Southeast Zone. Your visit today affords the State Command and policing stakeholders a valuable opportunity to discuss our challenges and benefit from your wealth of experience and professional insights aimed at improving service delivery and security outcomes,” he added.
Giwa noted that while Enugu remains one of the most peaceful states in the South-East, the command remains vigilant against emerging threats, including kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related violence, farmer-herder clashes and other forms of organised crime.
The engagement brought together senior police officers, heads of sister security agencies, Traditional and Religious leaders, Youth and Student leaders as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and develop sustainable strategies for combating insecurity across the South-East region.
