The 1st Annual Conference & Retreat for Senior Officers of the NDLEA Lagos Command kicked off on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Presken Hotel Ltd in Ikeja. This landmark event aimed to strengthen the capacity of officers in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking. Al Wali, the Commander of the NDLEA Lagos Command, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the need for unwavering commitment and continuous professional development in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
Key Sessions and Presentations
Mentoring as a Tool for Law Enforcement Excellence
Dr. Olusegun Oke, a retired Deputy Commander General of the NDLEA, led a key session on mentoring as a tool for professional development. He highlighted the importance of training and professional development for law enforcement officers, comparing it to a farmer preparing his tools before heading to the field. Dr. Oke emphasized that mentoring involves an experienced officer guiding a less-experienced colleague, ensuring knowledge transfer and skill development.
Upholding Human Rights in Law Enforcement: A Call for Reform
Retired Deputy Commander General Abdul Momodi led another significant session, addressing critical issues related to human rights and the detention of suspects in Nigeria. He condemned the prolonged detention of individuals without trial, reminding officers that suspects should not be held in police custody for more than 24 hours without being charged in court.
Promoting Accountability and Ethical Policing
Momodi stressed that training programs like this retreat are essential for educating officers on proper human rights practices. He shared past experiences where law enforcement officers resisted legal constraints, viewing them as obstacles to effective policing. In response, he reminded them that their powers are defined by the law, and failing to uphold these regulations constitutes a violation of their duty.
Conclusion and Call to Action
In conclusion, Momodi made it clear that the purpose of the training was to improve service delivery, ensure better treatment of suspects, and reinforce the idea that respecting human rights is not optional—it is the law. He issued a strong call to action, stating: “If you cannot do the job the way the Federal Republic of Nigeria expects you to, then you should leave. Simple.”
The 1st Annual Conference & Retreat for Senior Officers of the NDLEA Lagos Command is a significant step towards enhancing the capacity and productivity of senior officers in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.