The push for a technology-driven and intelligence-led security architecture in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) received a significant boost as top security chiefs and academics endorsed the integration of innovation and research into Nigeria’s security framework.
This formed the thrust of discussions at an event held in honour of Dr. Peter Olumuji, Secretary of the FCTA Command and Control Centre, following his attainment of a PhD in Security and Strategic Studies from Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
Leading the call, Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, emphasized the importance of academic certification and continuous learning for security personnel, noting that modern policing requires both operational expertise and intellectual depth.
Describing Olumuji as a committed and results-driven officer, the IGP said, “Whenever there is a task, he stays on your neck to ensure it is completed. I learned from him: start a job, put a plan to it, and follow it to the last,” adding that professionalism must be backed by knowledge and specialized training.
Also speaking, Director of Security Services at the FCTA, Adamu Gwary, linked the academic feat to ongoing reforms under the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, noting that the administration’s security strategy is increasingly anchored on intellectual capacity.
According to him, “This presupposes that security matters will be handled with innovative responsiveness. With the current security situation, this intellectual capacity ensures we have the organization needed to provide top-tier administration for the FCT.”
Gwary added that the growing number of highly educated professionals within the system would inject what he described as “philosophical urgency” into tackling urban security challenges.
In his remarks, Vice Chancellor of Bingham University, Haruna Kuje Ayuba, commended Olumuji’s commitment to genuine scholarship, stressing that advanced studies in Security and Strategic Studies are critical to addressing Nigeria’s evolving threats.
“While some students want to get a degree by any means, Dr. Olumuji was ready to learn. We didn’t just work together; we published research together,” he said, adding that training experts at that level is essential to “nip security challenges in the bud.”
Similarly, Stephen Okore of the Nigerian Army University Biu described the celebrant as a “gentleman leader,” highlighting his consistency, loyalty and integrity during their academic journey.
Responding, Olumuji said his doctoral research underscores the urgent need for Nigeria to shift from heavy reliance on manpower to technology-driven security systems.
“One thing we are going to do is look at modern ways of tackling insecurity, especially in urban areas. By introducing more technology, we reduce reliance on manpower. This is more effective and, crucially, saves the lives of our gallant men and women,” he said.
The event concluded with stakeholders calling for stronger collaboration between the FCTA, the Nigeria Police Force, and academic institutions to sustain evidence-based security management and position Abuja as a model for modern urban security in Nigeria.
