For Immediate Release

Abuja, | 7 September 2026

CLEEN Foundation Salutes the Nigeria Police Force on the International Day of Police Cooperation

On the occasion of the International Day of Police Cooperation, CLEEN Foundation expresses its solidarity with the Nigeria Police Force and acknowledges the dedication, sacrifices and professional responsibilities of police officers who work every day to protect lives, maintain public order and uphold the rule of law. The occasion provides an important opportunity to recognise that effective policing is ultimately about people, trust and partnership. In Nigeria, police officers operate in an increasingly complex security environment, often under difficult conditions and at considerable personal risk. From responding to violent crime, terrorism, kidnapping and communal conflicts to maintaining public safety and securing democratic processes, the demands placed on the Force are substantial. We particularly recognise officers who have lost their lives or suffered injury in the line of duty, and extend our solidarity to their families and colleagues.

At the same time, police cooperation must extend beyond cooperation among law enforcement agencies. The most effective security institutions are those that work with the communities they serve. Cooperation with citizens, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, the media, justice institutions and other security agencies is essential to building legitimate, accountable and trusted policing. For Nigeria, this means deepening community policing, strengthening intelligence-led and rights-based policing, improving police-community relations, protecting vulnerable groups, and ensuring that accountability and professionalism remain central to police reform. As Nigeria prepares for another important electoral cycle, the principle of police cooperation assumes even greater significance. The Nigeria Police Force will remain central to creating an environment in which citizens can exercise their democratic rights safely and freely. This requires impartiality, restraint, professionalism and respect for constitutional rights before, during and after elections. It also requires citizens and other stakeholders to recognise that democratic policing is a shared responsibility.

CLEEN Foundation reaffirms its commitment to constructive engagement with the Nigeria Police Force in strengthening police accountability, human rights, community-oriented policing, gender-responsive policing, police professionalism and public confidence in law enforcement. Our engagement is rooted in the belief that supporting the police and holding the police accountable are not contradictory objectives; indeed, accountability is one of the foundations of institutional legitimacy and public trust. On this International Day of Police Cooperation, we salute the men and women of the Nigeria Police Force who serve under challenging circumstances. We call for renewed investment in their welfare, professional development, operational capacity and institutional resilience. A safer Nigeria requires a police institution that is professional, adequately supported, accountable to the law and trusted by the people.

CLEEN Foundation stands in solidarity with the Nigeria Police Force and all police officers working to keep our communities safe.

Signed

Peter Maduoma

Executive Director