By Adesakin Adefemi
The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), in collaboration with the Body of Banks’ CEOs, hosted an engagement with the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, in Lagos.
The meeting reinforced the shared commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s financial system as a critical pillar of national stability and economic growth.
According to a statement from Ag. ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, ANIPR, MIPRA, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, on February 12, 2026, the engagement focused on strengthening collaboration between law enforcement and financial institutions. The source emphasized that the partnership aims to protect banking operations and enhance national security.
In his remarks, the IGP underscored the strong nexus between financial security and national security, noting that the resilience of banking operations is central to investor confidence and Nigeria’s global credibility.
He highlighted the evolving threat environment, emphasizing that beyond traditional risks such as armed attacks, the sector now faces increasingly sophisticated challenges.
These challenges include cyber-enabled fraud, identity compromise, insider facilitation, and illicit financial flows, which pose significant threats to financial stability. The IGP stressed the need for proactive measures to combat these emerging risks and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s financial system.
To address these risks, the Nigeria Police Force continues to advance an intelligence-led approach to protecting financial infrastructure.
The IGP referenced recent operations that dismantled violent crime networks, disrupted kidnapping syndicates, and recovered illegal arms, thereby strengthening the enabling environment for business continuity.
He further noted his recent engagements with the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Abuja and the Nigeria Exchange Group (NGX), both aimed at enhancing financial system integrity and investor protection.
These collaborations demonstrate the Police Force’s commitment to working with key stakeholders to safeguard the financial sector.
In line with the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, the Force is enhancing the recruitment, training, and deployment of Supernumerary Police Officers (Spy Police) to meet the specialized security needs of banks and other critical financial institutions.
This initiative aims to bolster security within the banking sector and ensure a safer environment for financial transactions.
The IGP’s efforts to strengthen financial security align with the Police Force’s broader mandate to protect lives and property, and to maintain law and order. By working closely with the banking sector, the Police aim to prevent financial crimes and promote a stable economic environment.
In conclusion, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to working closely with the banking sector as a strategic partner in safeguarding the stability, integrity, and international reputation of Nigeria’s financial architecture. This partnership is expected to yield significant benefits for Nigeria’s economy and national security.
The collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and the banking sector marks a significant step towards enhancing financial security and promoting economic growth in Nigeria. As the partnership deepens, stakeholders expect improved protection of financial infrastructure and increased investor confidence in Nigeria’s economy.
