Top Police Chief Inspects New Jigawa Shooting Range, Boosting Peacekeeping Readiness

By Abdulhamid Sani

Dutse, Jigawa State – In a move aimed at bolstering the preparedness of Nigerian police officers for peacekeeping missions, a high-ranking official from the Force Headquarters, Abuja, recently conducted an inspection of a newly acquired shooting range in Jigawa State.

On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, the Director of the Peacekeeping Department of Operations, Force Headquarters (FHQ), Abuja, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) A M Jagaba, undertook a significant visit to the shooting range located in Tsohon Gari, Birnin Kudu Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

The inspection underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering commitment to ensuring its personnel are operationally ready and professionally trained, particularly those earmarked for sensitive peacekeeping deployments both domestically and internationally. The primary objective of DCP Jagaba’s visit was to meticulously assess the suitability and operational readiness of the facility for crucial peacekeeping pre-deployment exercises and various other tactical training programs essential for modern policing.

Upon his arrival, DCP Jagaba was warmly received by the Jigawa State Commissioner of Police, CP AT Abdullahi, along with other senior officers of the State Command. He was subsequently given a comprehensive tour of the shooting range facility, which included a detailed examination of the firing zones and the crucial safety installations put in place. The inspection also provided an opportunity for the Director to engage directly with the range instructors and the police officers currently undergoing training at the facility.

During his address, DCP Jagaba emphasized the critical role of high-quality training infrastructure in significantly enhancing the efficiency and, most importantly, the safety of police personnel who are deployed on challenging peacekeeping missions, both within the borders of Nigeria and in international assignments. He commended the Jigawa State Command for their proactive efforts in diligently maintaining the facility to a commendable standard. Furthermore, he reiterated the unwavering support of the Force Headquarters for initiatives aimed at consistently improving training standards for police officers across the nation. Recognizing the importance of effective administration, the Director also suggested the construction of an administrative building to support the instructors in carrying out their essential duties.

“The safety and preparedness of our officers remain our utmost priority, especially for those who are entrusted with the responsibility of serving in international peacekeeping missions,” stated DCP Jagaba. “This shooting range facility plays a vital role in ensuring that our personnel are thoroughly trained, highly skilled, and fully mission-ready before deployment.”

This inspection is a key component of the Department of Operations’ broader strategic initiative to standardize police training facilities across the country. This initiative aims to align these facilities with international best practices in the crucial area of peace support operations, ultimately contributing to a more effective and safer police force.

SP Lawan Shiisu Adam, ANIPR,

Police Public Relations Officer,

Jigawa State Police Command, Dutse.

24th April, 2025.

Analysis: Investing in Skills for Peace and Security

The inspection of the new shooting range in Jigawa State highlights the Nigeria Police Force’s proactive approach to enhancing the capabilities of its officers, particularly those involved in peacekeeping operations. This investment in training infrastructure acknowledges the complex and often dangerous environments in which Nigerian police officers are deployed, both at home and abroad.

DCP Jagaba’s emphasis on safety and preparedness underscores the Force’s commitment to protecting its personnel while ensuring they can effectively carry out their duties. The suggestion for an administrative building further demonstrates a holistic approach to developing the training facility, recognizing the importance of both practical training and effective administrative support for the instructors.

This development is particularly relevant in the Nigerian context, where police officers are frequently called upon to maintain peace and security in diverse and challenging situations. By aligning training standards with international best practices, the Nigeria Police Force aims to enhance its professionalism and effectiveness on the global stage while also improving its capacity to address domestic security challenges.¹ The focus on pre-deployment training for peacekeeping missions signifies Nigeria’s continued commitment to international peace and security efforts. This initiative could lead to more confident, competent, and ultimately safer deployments for Nigerian police officers serving in peacekeeping roles.

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