The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has warned that the recruitment of minors by armed groups—whether as fighters, spies or in any other role—constitutes a grave violation of children’s rights and poses a significant threat to national security.
He noted that children remain among the most vulnerable in situations of violence and armed conflict, and stressed the urgent need for security agencies to respond with heightened sensitivity and professionalism.
Egbetokun made the remarks during the Pre-Deployment Training on Preventing the Recruitment and Use of Children in Armed Conflict, held at the Peacekeeping Hall of the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the training was organised in collaboration with the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security, and featured both international facilitators and certified Nigeria Police trainers.
Represented by the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Training and Development, AIG Aminu Baba Raji, the IGP said participants were adequately prepared to apply child-sensitive policing approaches during internal security operations.
He explained that officers were trained not only to identify and prevent the recruitment of children by armed groups, but also to understand that such children are primarily victims who require confidentiality, compassion and protection.
Egbetokun further underscored the importance of deploying officers who can recognise the risks faced by children in conflict zones and respond with gender-responsive, humane and professional conduct.
The training, he added, complements existing Nigeria Police child-protection initiatives, including the Safer Schools Programme and Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), thereby strengthening the Force’s overall capacity to safeguard vulnerable children.
“A total of 25 officers were certified as ready for deployment to conflict-affected areas,” he stated.
The IGP expressed gratitude to the organisers and reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to upholding human rights and enhancing its child-protection capabilities through sustained training and strategic partnerships.
Linus Aleke
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