Rwanda National Police

The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) in charge of Operations, CP Vincent Sano, on Tuesday, June 16, received a delegation from the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria at the Rwanda National Police (RNP) General Headquarters in Kacyiru.

The delegation, comprising 12 students and faculty members led by Halima Ibrahim Zanna, Director of Studies at NISS, is undertaking a seven-day study tour in Rwanda under the theme, “Ethnic Militias and Resource Competition in Africa, Implications for National Security.”

The visit aims to provide participants with insights into Rwanda’s governance and security experiences, particularly the country's approach to rebuilding and maintaining stability following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

During the visit, the delegation was briefed on the Rwanda National Police’s transformation journey, capacity-building initiatives, and its role in safeguarding national security and public order.

Addressing the delegation, DIGP Vincent Sano underscored the critical role of visionary leadership in Rwanda’s transformation and security achievements.

“We managed to be where we are today because we have visionary, strong leadership—our President and the security team. Without strong leadership, this country risked being wiped out,” said CP Sano.

He explained that Rwanda adopted three fundamental choices in its recovery and nation-building process.

“After the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, we made three deliberate choices: to build national unity, uphold accountability, and think big toward a shared bright future. These choices enabled us to foster reconciliation, prevent revenge and division, and create a secure and cohesive society where citizens work together for sustainable development.”

CP Sano further noted that Rwanda’s security institutions place citizens at the center of their operations, with community policing serving as a cornerstone of public safety and trust-building.

“Our security forces prioritize serving the public and invest heavily in community policing. This approach helps security organs earn public trust and encourages citizens to actively participate in maintaining security,” he said.

The delegation also received a detailed presentation highlighting how the legacy of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi continues to shape Rwanda’s security policies and institutional framework.

The presentation emphasized Rwanda’s efforts to prevent conflict, promote national unity and reconciliation, and strengthen security through effective governance, regional cooperation, and community-centered policing.

The Head of Delegation, Halima Ibrahim Zanna, expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to the Nigerian team and explained why Rwanda was selected as a study destination.

“Rwanda was chosen because of its political and economic stability, its remarkable reconciliation journey, and its sustainable development achievements,” she said.

She added that the study visit offers a valuable opportunity for participants to learn from Rwanda’s experiences in fostering national unity, strengthening security institutions, and promoting long-term peace and development.