Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed police personnel to ensure that technology used for policing is deployed lawfully, ethically and responsibly, with safeguards protecting citizens’ rights, privacy and personal data.
Disu gave the directive in Abuja while launching the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) Vigilant App and the NPF–MTN Closed User Group (CUG) Network at the NPF Conference Centre in Jabi.
According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the IGP described both initiatives as practical steps towards advancing the police’s digital transformation agenda.
Digital policing initiatives
Disu said the Vigilant App was developed to strengthen interaction between the police and members of the public, while the CUG Network would improve communication and coordination among personnel across the Force.
Developed by the Force ICT Department in collaboration with stakeholders in the financial services sector, the NPF Vigilant App is designed to enable Nigerians to report suspected financial fraud more promptly.
The citizen-facing platform allows users to submit reports, upload supporting evidence, monitor the progress of their cases and receive feedback.
It also facilitates coordination with relevant institutions in line with existing laws and established procedures.
The police said the technology would further improve communication, emergency coordination and operational response across its commands and units.
Rights and data protection
While highlighting the benefits of technology in modern policing, Disu warned that technological advancement must not undermine citizens’ fundamental rights.
He described technology as an important tool for professional policing but stressed that its deployment must be guided by appropriate safeguards, privacy protection, data protection and accountability.
The IGP said the Nigeria Police Force would continue working towards making policing services more accessible, responsive, people-centred and effective through responsible technology adoption and strategic partnerships.
He also reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to working with relevant public institutions and private-sector partners to improve public safety and strengthen national security.
Improving police service delivery
The Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Information and Communication Technology, Fayoade Adegoke Mustapha, said the launch demonstrated the Force’s commitment to introducing practical technology-driven solutions to improve service delivery.
DIG Fayoade said the initiatives would also support police personnel and promote stronger engagement between the police and the public.
He urged Nigerians to download the NPF Vigilant App from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, while encouraging users to make responsible use of the platform when reporting suspected financial fraud.
The launch was attended by representatives of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion, the Police Service Commission, the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System, financial institutions, fintech companies, MTN Nigeria, Vigilant Technology Limited, TIMPH International Limited and other stakeholders.
Source: Nigeria Police Force
