The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have moved to strengthen their operational partnership ahead of the 2027 general elections, with both institutions stressing the importance of closer coordination in addressing emerging security threats.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to deepening cooperation with the police when he paid a courtesy visit to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Olatunji Rilwan Disu, NPM, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.
The meeting centred on strengthening inter-agency coordination and building on the longstanding relationship between the two security institutions in the interest of national security.
With the 2027 general elections approaching, Aneke emphasised the importance of timely intelligence sharing, effective communication and stronger coordination among security agencies to maintain peace and protect the electoral process.
He also identified opportunities for both institutions to make better use of their existing capabilities and expertise, particularly through the deployment of Nigerian Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets to support police operations where required.
The initiative is expected to enhance the ability of security agencies to monitor potential threats, respond quickly to emerging security situations and provide the necessary support for maintaining law and order during the electoral period.
Responding, the Inspector-General of Police welcomed the visit and reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to sustained cooperation with the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies.
Disu stressed the importance of collective efforts in safeguarding national security and creating a peaceful environment for the conduct of the 2027 elections.
The two security chiefs also discussed opportunities for joint training, capacity development and knowledge sharing between personnel of both organisations.
Areas identified for greater cooperation include intelligence gathering and analysis, forensic investigations, crime scene management and criminal investigations.
According to the Chief of the Air Staff, closer collaboration in professional training and skills development would improve the capabilities of personnel in both institutions while further strengthening the partnership between the NAF and NPF.
The engagement comes amid preparations by Nigeria’s security agencies for the 2027 general elections, during which effective intelligence coordination and inter-agency cooperation are expected to play a critical role in preventing threats and ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to working together and leveraging their respective capabilities to protect lives and property and promote national security.
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