A two-day workshop on crime statistics took place in Abuja from 19 to 20 May 2026. Despite the tragic events that had taken place just a few days earlier, in which 17 police officers were killed in an ambush, high-ranking representatives of the Nigerian police took an active part in the event. Among the participants were nine Commissioners of Police and 13 Deputy Commissioners of Police.

Exchange on the importance of robust data 

In a total of five working groups, the participants engaged in intensive discussions on the importance of valid and reliable crime statistics for police work. The focus was on a comparison of crime data collection methodologies in Nigeria and Germany.

It became clear that robust crime statistics form an essential basis for well-founded decisions, the strategic direction of the police and effective security planning.

The German model as a guide

The participants agreed that, due to its complexity, the model used in Germany cannot currently be applied directly to Nigeria. At the same time, however, there was a consensus that the establishment of reliable statistics is of central importance for the future development of Nigerian policing.

In particular, the desire for ongoing advisory support was highlighted – both in discussions with the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and in the necessary processes for further developing existing structures.

Next steps for the further development of crime statistics

The insights gained during the workshop will now be incorporated into further discussions with the IGP. The aim is to initiate an evaluation of the existing crime statistics and thus lay the foundations for modern, data-driven policing in Nigeria in the long term.