DIG Fayoade Begins Southwest Security Tour, Assures Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils Through Technology

DIG Fayoade Begins Southwest Security Tour, Assures Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils Through Technology

IBADAN, OYO STATE – The Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in charge of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the Southwest geopolitical zone, Adegoke Fayoade, mni, has commenced an official tour of the Southwest region with strategic engagements in Oyo State aimed at strengthening security collaboration, enhancing operational efficiency, and promoting community-based policing across the zone.

The tour began with courtesy visits to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, where discussions focused on deepening partnerships between the Nigeria Police Force, government institutions, traditional rulers, and local communities to sustain peace, security, and development.

During his meeting with Governor Makinde, DIG Fayoade commended the Oyo State Government for its continued support to security agencies and emphasized the importance of intelligence sharing, community policing, and inter-agency cooperation in addressing emerging security threats across the Southwest.

He noted that collaborative efforts among stakeholders remain critical to sustaining the relative peace and stability currently enjoyed in Oyo State and the wider region.

At the Olubadan's Palace, the DIG acknowledged the pivotal role traditional institutions play in grassroots security, conflict resolution, and community engagement. The monarch, in turn, praised the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force in maintaining law and order and pledged continued support towards ensuring a safer Ibadanland and Southwest region.

As part of the visit, DIG Fayoade proceeded to the Oyo State Police Command Headquarters, where he delivered a strategic lecture to senior officers, rank-and-file personnel, and stakeholders on professionalism, discipline, intelligence-led policing, and improved service delivery.

Addressing participants, the DIG reassured residents of Oyo State that the Nigeria Police Force is deploying advanced technological tools and technical expertise to facilitate the safe rescue of pupils and teachers recently abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.

According to him, ongoing efforts are yielding positive results, with the Force committed to ensuring the victims are rescued without harm.

“I can assure you that technology is already being deployed in the rescue operation. It is only a matter of time before the abducted pupils and teachers are reunited with their families. Our priority is to bring them back alive, hale and hearty,” he said.

DIG Fayoade disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, had directed all Deputy Inspectors-General of Police to embark on nationwide sensitization and operational assessment tours to engage officers and communities while strengthening public confidence in policing.

Describing technology as the backbone of modern law enforcement, the DIG said the Force continues to leverage digital tools, intelligence-gathering systems, and technical expertise to combat crime and improve public safety.

“Whatever crime that comes up, we deploy our technical experts and available technology to ensure such crimes are resolved within the shortest possible time. Technology remains indispensable in modern policing,” he stated.

He further urged Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and tactical commanders to uphold professionalism, transparency, and quality service delivery, stressing that public trust remains one of the most effective tools for successful policing.

“The only way to build trust is through sincerity, objectivity, prompt response to complaints, and quality policing services. Stay away from perverting justice. Make yourselves available whenever there is a problem and move swiftly to serve the public,” he charged.

The DIG noted that maintaining cordial relationships with citizens would encourage the flow of credible intelligence necessary for combating criminal activities and other threats to national security.

He also called on residents and stakeholders across the Southwest to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.

“The Southwest must remain safe and secure. We will continue to deal decisively with all forms of crime and criminality, but we need the support of the people through timely and credible information,” he added.

Earlier, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Olugbenga Ayodeji Abimbola, welcomed the DIG and expressed confidence that the visit would further enhance the operational capacity of officers through strategic knowledge-sharing sessions and stakeholder engagements.

CP Abimbola also commended the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, noting that his reform-driven vision continues to promote professionalism, discipline, innovation, and excellence throughout the Force.

The Southwest tour will take DIG Fayoade across the six states of the region as he evaluates operational activities, engages critical stakeholders, and strengthens institutional partnerships aimed at improving security outcomes.

His engagements in Ibadan have set a positive tone for the tour, underscoring the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to proactive policing, technological innovation, strategic collaboration, and community-driven security solutions designed to ensure lasting peace and safety across the Southwest.