The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has called for equitable access to digital policing tools across nations, stressing that modern security challenges require collective action and shared technological capabilities.
Disu made the call while participating in the Fifth United Nations Chiefs of Police Summit (UNCOPS 2026), held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York from July 7 to 8.
The summit brought together ministers, inspectors-general of police, police chiefs and senior representatives of regional and professional policing organisations from around the world to discuss strategies for strengthening international peace, security and sustainable development through enhanced cooperation between national police services and United Nations policing.
Speaking during the summit, the Nigerian police chief highlighted the growing threat posed by transnational criminal networks, noting that criminals are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence, encrypted communications and cyber-enabled platforms to carry out sophisticated cross-border crimes.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, Disu stressed that while emerging technologies offer significant opportunities for law enforcement through artificial intelligence, digital forensics and geospatial intelligence, access to such tools should not be limited to a select group of technologically advanced nations.
He emphasized that technological innovation in policing must be guided by transparency, accountability, respect for human rights and adherence to the rule of law.
“No nation can effectively confront today’s evolving security threats in isolation. Strengthening international police cooperation, expanding capacity building and ensuring equitable access to digital policing tools are essential to combating transnational crime, terrorism, cybercrime and other emerging security challenges,” the statement quoted the IGP as saying.
Disu also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting global peacekeeping efforts and strengthening partnerships with international law enforcement agencies to tackle cross-border criminal activities.
The statement noted that Nigeria’s participation at UNCOPS 2026 reflects the country’s continued commitment to international peace and security, enhanced law enforcement cooperation and collective efforts to address terrorism, cybercrime, transnational organised crime and other emerging threats.
It added that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to adopting global best practices, responsibly leveraging technology and fostering partnerships that enhance public safety while upholding professionalism, accountability and the rule of law.
