The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, on Tuesday launched the Nigeria Police Force Vigilant App and the NPF–MTN Closed User Group Network to improve the reporting of financial fraud and strengthen communication among police personnel.

The Vigilant App is a citizen-facing platform that allows users to submit suspected fraud reports, upload evidence, track cases and receive feedback.

The NPF–MTN CUG Network “provides police officers nationwide with secure and affordable on-net communication to support emergency coordination and operational response.”

According to a statement signed and released by CSP Ani Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, the Vigilant App was developed by the Force ICT Department in collaboration with stakeholders in the financial services sector.

It supports coordination with relevant institutions in line with existing laws and procedures.

According to the statement, the event was attended by “representatives of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion, the Police Service Commission, Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System, financial institutions, fintech companies, MTN Nigeria, Vigilant Technology Limited, TIMPH International Limited and other partners.”

In his remarks, Disu described the platforms as a “practical step in the Force’s digital transformation drive.”

He said the Vigilant App would “strengthen engagement with the public while the CUG Network would improve internal communication,” making the Nigeria Police Force more connected, responsive and effective.

He added that technology remains an enabler of professional policing and must be deployed lawfully, ethically and responsibly, with regard for citizens’ rights, privacy, data protection and accountability.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Information and Communication Technology, Fayoade Mustapha, said the initiatives show the “Force’s resolve to deploy practical technology-driven solutions that improve service delivery, support personnel and strengthen public engagement.”

He urged Nigerians to download the NPF Vigilant App from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store and “use it responsibly to report suspected financial fraud.”

NPF expressed appreciation to the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion, NIBSS, financial institutions, fintech companies, MTN Nigeria and other partners for their collaboration. (The PUNCH)