Ministry Of Police Affairs Unveils Data Collection Registration Centre

In a significant stride, the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has announced the functionality of the Data Collection and Registration Centre, DACORE, marking a landmark achievement in the implementation of the West African Police Information System, WAPIS.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the WAPIS Programme Briefing held at the Cyber Crime Center in Abuja, Senator Gaidam highlighted the pivotal role of DACORE in consolidating crucial data to empower law enforcement agencies in their efforts to combat emerging threats effectively.

“The establishment of DACORE signifies a milestone in our data collection endeavors, providing a centralized hub for vital information crucial for the swift and efficient response of law enforcement agencies,”.

Senator Gaidam commended the commitment of key agencies to the WAPIS initiative, noting the distribution of WAPIS terminals to enhance access to critical information, thereby bolstering collaborative efforts to combat crime and uphold security across the region.

Furthermore, the Minister underscored Nigeria’s dedication to capacity building, citing over six training sessions aimed at equipping law enforcement personnel with the requisite skills to leverage the full potential of the WAPIS system.

Addressing concerns surrounding data protection and privacy, Senator Gaidam emphasized Nigeria’s recent enactment of the National Data Protection Law 2023, affirming the nation’s commitment to safeguarding sensitive information while actively participating in the WAPIS program.

In recognition of the successful management of major events, including the African Cup of Nations, which attracted three million visitors, Zissimos VERGOS, Head of Politics, Press, and Information Section European Union ECOWAS/Nigeria, commended the efforts of INTERPOL and regional law enforcement agencies, highlighting WAPIS’s active role in ensuring security during such events.

Representing the Head of Regional Security Division, Directorate Of Peacekeeping and Registration Security, Ecowas, Dr. Dieng Abdourahmane, emphasized the significance of appropriate infrastructure in combating transnational organized crime in West Africa.

He lauded Nigeria’s progress in operationalizing the WAPIS programme and expressed optimism for the establishment of additional centres across the country in the near future.

The unveiling of DACORE as a fully functional hub marks a significant step in enhancing regional security collaboration and underscores Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging innovative solutions in the fight against crime.

Aisha Adesanya, Edited By Grace Namiji