The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Police Affairs, has officially handed over seven Modified Light Tactical Armoured Vehicles (LTAV) to the Nigeria Police Force in a significant move to strengthen national security operations.
The handover ceremony took place at the Ministry of Police Affairs headquarters in Abuja, where the Minister, Ibrahim Gaidam, presented the vehicles to Inspector General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun.
During the ceremony, Minister Gaidam emphasized that the vehicles represent a major milestone in the government's commitment to empowering the police force. "The security vehicles we are handing over to the Nigeria Police Force stand as a testament to the relentless commitment of our Ministry to bolster national security," he stated.
A distinctive feature of these armoured vehicles is their incorporation of local content in their design, making them more suitable for Nigeria's unique terrain and weather conditions. This local adaptation ensures easier maintenance within the country, unlike many imported security vehicles that often face durability challenges.
"This local content design ensures resilience, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness," the minister added, noting that the vehicles were procured from the ministry's 2024 operational budget.
Gaidam reassured the Nigeria Police Force that their welfare and operational needs remain a priority under President Tinubu's administration, pledging continued support for their efforts in protecting Nigerian citizens and property.
Dr. Anuma Ogbonaya Nlia, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police Affairs, described the procurement as "a critical part of the ministry's ongoing efforts to provide the Force with modern tools and resources necessary to confront the evolving nature of crime and insecurity in the society."
Receiving the vehicles, IGP Olukayode Egbetokun expressed gratitude for the timely donation, stating, "We are receiving this critical asset at a time it is most needed and surely it will play a significant role in enhancing our equipment capability and boosting our anti-crime efforts."
The IGP confirmed that the vehicles would be deployed to areas where they are most needed to strengthen the force's operational capabilities in combating crime across the nation.