A former Assistant Inspector-General of Police and ex-head of Interpol Nigeria, Olusola Subair (retd.), has said Nigeria can significantly reduce kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes if citizens actively support security agencies with credible intelligence while governments continue to address the root causes of insecurity.
Subair, who spoke during a special interview with NSTV International, said although Ogun State shares in the nation's security challenges, the state has remained relatively stable through strong collaboration among security agencies, proactive policing and sustained support from the state government. According to him, security institutions in the state operate with a common purpose rather than in isolation, allowing them to respond swiftly to emerging threats.
The retired police chief identified unemployment, the influx of foreign criminals, proliferation of small arms and the growing "get-rich-quick" mentality among some youths as major drivers of insecurity. He, however, commended the Ogun State Government for creating an investment-friendly environment capable of generating employment while also supporting security agencies with policies aimed at crime prevention.
Speaking on the impact of insecurity on national development, Subair noted that persistent security concerns discourage both local and foreign investors, affect agricultural productivity and slow economic growth. He explained that the state had successfully reduced recurring farmers-herders conflicts through an early warning system, stakeholder engagement involving traditional rulers, farmers and herders, and prompt intervention before disputes escalate into violence.
He also praised the recent operations by security agencies that dismantled several kidnapping networks, stressing that the fight against crime must remain intelligence-driven and proactive. According to him, security agencies are not magicians and can only succeed when members of the public provide timely and accurate information about suspicious activities within their communities.
The former Interpol boss urged Nigerians not to shield criminals, adding that residents should utilise available communication channels, including anonymous text messages, to report suspicious persons or activities to the police and other security agencies. "When you see something, say something," he advised, stressing that many criminals live within communities and are often known by residents.
Subair called on religious leaders to use their pulpits to promote integrity, hard work and moral values instead of encouraging unrealistic expectations of instant wealth. He equally urged political leaders to lead by personal example, restore societal values and provide responsible leadership capable of inspiring young people to embrace legitimate means of livelihood.
He further acknowledged the critical role of traditional rulers, community leaders and local security outfits such as Amotekun in intelligence gathering and grassroots policing, noting that their closeness to the people has strengthened public confidence and improved information sharing with security agencies.
Reflecting on his policing career, Subair recounted joining the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police in 1986 and serving in several strategic positions, including the Ogun State Criminal Investigation Department during the era of notorious armed robber Shina Rambo. His fluency in French, he said, enabled him to coordinate cross-border operations with the police in the Republic of Benin, leading to successful anti-robbery operations.
He later served at Interpol, eventually becoming Commissioner of Police in charge of Interpol Nigeria before rising to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police. He headed Interpol Nigeria for four years and represented Africa on the Interpol Executive Committee between 2017 and 2022 after his tenure was extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He also participated in several United Nations and African Union peacekeeping missions in Macedonia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mali.
Describing one of the saddest moments of his career, the retired police chief recalled the disappearance of Nigerian police officers who travelled to Gabon to recover a stolen vehicle through Interpol operations, saying despite international efforts, the officers were never found.
Subair commended NSTV International for using journalism as a tool for public enlightenment, peacebuilding and national development, urging media organisations to prioritise accurate and responsible reporting capable of reassuring the public and supporting efforts to build a safer society.
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