By Olaitan Ibrahim
The 10,000 police constables recruited last year by the Nigeria Police Force passed out of various police colleges, on Thursday, after training for six months.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, disclosed that the new policemen had been posted to their states of origin for community policing.
He added that the Force was targeting 30,000 annual recruitment in line with President Bola Tinubu’s approval.
At the Passing Out Parade at the Police Training School, Bauchi, on Thursday, Egbetokun, said the new personnel would boost the Nigeria police capacity, saying that they had been deployed to their states of origin for community policing.
The IG, who was represented by the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Police Command, Auwal Muhammad, tasked the 10,000 new constables to adhere to professionalism, fairness and friendliness in the discharge of their duties.
The IG explained that the passing out exercise was taking place at 04 premier colleges and 12 Police Training Schools nationwide.
He said, “The exercise marks the culmination of a six-month rigorous training programme that has pushed the recruits to their physical and intellectual limits.
“Today’s Passing-Out Parade signifies a pivotal transition for these individuals, as they formally assume their roles as professional police officers, leaving their civilian status behind and embarking on a career of service and duty.”
Egbetokun maintained that in the course of their training, the constables had been instilled with the necessary orientation to effectively address the complex security challenges facing the country while adhering to the principles of the law.
The IG said, “Our comprehensive and research-based curriculum has equipped them with fundamental policing ethics, norms, and practices, as well as modern law enforcement principles.
“We have high expectations for this graduating class of constables, and we are confident that they will uphold the values imparted to them during their training, thereby contributing to the enhancement of law enforcement in our country.
“The President’s approval for the annual recruitment of 30,000 police constables over the next few years is expected to strengthen our internal security, enhance police performance, and promote optimal police service delivery nationwide,” Egbetokun added.
He emphasised his commitment to driving the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda towards transforming the Nigeria Police Force into a reformed, well-positioned, and capable institution that effectively fulfils its internal security mandate.
He disclosed that a significant majority of the newly graduated police constables had been posted in their states of origin under community policing.
He noted that the strategic deployment aimed to augment ongoing law enforcement efforts and reinforce the fight against crime at the grassroots level.
“I am confident that these new officers will demonstrate exceptional professionalism, integrity, and dedication to service, thereby upholding the honour and prestige of the Police Force.
“Your role demands empathy and compassion towards the civilian population, particularly the vulnerable while maintaining firmness and fairness in all interactions.
“Strive to be perceived as a friend and partner to the public, inspiring hope and confidence in the security apparatus.
“Remember that the uniform you wear and the office you hold is a symbol of trust and responsibility, never to be exploited for intimidation, harassment, or perversion of justice.
“Abhor all forms of lawlessness, human rights abuse, and unprofessional conduct. Instead, utilize your authority to protect citizens, enforce laws, and apprehend criminals.
“Throughout your career, demonstrate boldness, responsibility, discipline, and loyalty to the Force, while remaining calm and composed in the face of adversity. As you progress, uphold the values of patriotism and dedication to service,” the IG said.