The Nigeria Police has announced plans to train local security outfits in Anambra State to improve professionalism and strengthen collaboration in tackling insecurity.

The approval for the training was given by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, according to the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria in Awka on Saturday.

Ikenga explained that while local security groups play a vital role in community safety because of their knowledge of the people and terrain, they need proper orientation to align with modern policing methods.

“These officers are local, so they have quality information to offer the police. They know the terrain much better, but they need to be trained for greater results,” Ikenga said.

He stressed the importance of breaking the “conspiracy of silence,” where citizens withhold useful information from the police out of fear. According to him, the training will focus on the principle of “If you see something or hear something, say something,” which will in turn be passed down to communities for stronger neighborhood watch.

The PPRO further noted that the training would cover basic security skills such as:

Proper public conduct

Respect for human rights

Instinctive intelligence in handling situations

He explained that these skills would help reduce conflicts between local officers and the public while preventing unnecessary altercations that could escalate into unlawful acts.

Ikenga also disclosed that the police were preparing for the upcoming Anambra governorship election scheduled for November 8, stressing that effective training for local security officers would help maintain peace and order during and after the polls.

With this initiative, the police believe local security outfits can become more professional, reliable, and trusted partners in safeguarding lives and property across Anambra State.