Nigeria is accelerating efforts to modernise law enforcement operations with the deployment of artificial intelligence-driven investigative tools and expanded digital infrastructure across police formations nationwide.
The initiative follows renewed collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and the Nigeria Police Force, aimed at transforming policing through technology, improved connectivity, and digital innovation.
Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, disclosed that discussions were recently held with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, Mohammed Sheidu, on integrating police stations into the Federal Government’s Project BRIDGE broadband initiative.
Under the plan, police stations across the country could serve as Points of Presence (PoPs) for broadband infrastructure, helping to improve connectivity while strengthening the operational capabilities of law enforcement agencies.
The discussions build on a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Ministry and the Nigeria Police Trust Fund to accelerate the digital transformation of policing and expand access to reliable connectivity nationwide.
According to Tijani, enhanced broadband access within police formations will support modern policing, improve service delivery, strengthen communication systems, and boost institutional efficiency.
A major highlight of the engagement was the demonstration of an artificial intelligence-powered, voice-enabled statement capture and case management platform developed by Nigerian technology firm Awarri.
The platform enables investigators to digitally record statements, manage case files, and process information more efficiently while supporting multiple Nigerian languages. Authorities believe the solution could significantly reduce paperwork, improve accuracy, and speed up criminal investigations.
Tijani revealed that pilot deployment of the platform will begin in Abuja and Lagos in the coming weeks before a wider nationwide rollout.
The adoption of an indigenous AI solution marks one of Nigeria’s most ambitious attempts to integrate advanced technologies into public-sector operations and law enforcement.
The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader digital transformation agenda, which seeks to deepen broadband penetration, expand digital infrastructure, and promote the use of emerging technologies across critical sectors of the economy.
By leveraging police stations as broadband hubs, the government hopes to extend connectivity to underserved areas while simultaneously equipping officers with modern digital tools required for intelligence gathering, emergency response, communication, and data management.
Technology experts say improved digital infrastructure could enhance operational efficiency, strengthen transparency, and improve the speed and quality of criminal investigations.
The project also reflects Nigeria’s growing commitment to artificial intelligence and homegrown innovation as key drivers of public-sector reform and economic development.
Speaking on the importance of technology adoption, Tijani stressed that building infrastructure alone is not enough.
“As we continue to build the digital infrastructure that powers Nigeria’s future, it is equally important that our public institutions are equipped to adopt and harness these technologies to deliver better outcomes for citizens,” he said.
Analysts believe that as digital transformation gathers momentum across government institutions, investments in broadband infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and digital public services will become increasingly critical to improving productivity, enhancing governance, and strengthening Nigeria’s position as a leading digital economy in Africa.
With pilot projects set to commence in Abuja and Lagos, the initiative could provide a glimpse into the future of policing in Nigeria, one driven by connectivity, data, and intelligent technologies designed to improve public safety and service delivery.
