By Oki Samson
CITIZENS COMPASS – The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and others personalities yesterday, graced the passing-out parade of the 2022 batch of Police Constables which was held at the Police College, Ikeja, Lagos State.
In his address, the IGP assured that the approval of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a yearly 30,000 recruits into the Nigeria Police will greatly help the no. 1 security agency in Nigeria to bring down its manpower deficit, National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP can report.
The event took place concurrently at Premier Colleges and 12 Police Training Schools nationwide to mark the culmination of a six-month rigorous training.
Representing Sanwo-Olu was the Secretary to the State Government, Lagos State, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin while the IGP was represented by the AIG of Zone 2 Police Command, AIG Adegoke Mustapha Fayoade.
Also in attendance were Chairman of Police Service Commission (PSC), DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd represented by Mrs. E Ajayi Daniels; Oba of Lagos represented by the White Caps Chief; CP Olanrewaju Ishola, Commissioner of Police, Lagos State among others.
The IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun who was represented by the AIG of Zone 2, AIG Adegoke Fayoade said in his speech, ‘Today’s passing out parade signifies a pivotal transition for these individuals as they formally assume their role as professional police officers, leaving their civilian status behind and embarking on a career of service and duty.’
‘The successful completion of these recruits’ training and today’s graduation ceremony marks a significant milestone and a major step forward for the federal government. Under the leadership of His Excellency President Bola Tinubu, this achievement demonstrates the government commitment to the Nigeria Police Force by addressing the long-standing manpower deficit.’
‘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.’
The IGP charged the new Policemen, ‘Your role demands empathy and compassion towards the civilian population, particularly the vulnerable ones, while maintaining a firmness and fairness in all interactions, strive to be perceived as a friend and a partner of the public, inspiring hope and confidence in the Police.
The SSG, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin said, ‘’I am particularly happy to know that 266 Lagosians are among the recruits who have successfully completed this rigorous, mandatory six-month course. I congratulate and wish you all success. My appreciation goes to the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Police Command, CP Ishola Olanrewaju, the teachers and faculty of the police college for their careful guidance and ensuring the welfare of the recruits. To the parents and guardians, I say congratulations. Your hard work and sacrifice have brought you to this day, and I know that you are proud of these young men and women.’
To the new recruits, she said: ‘As you embark on this noble career, remember that you are now ambassadors of the Nigeria Police Force and representatives of our state. Uphold the highest ethical standards, demonstrate professionalism in all your actions, and treat every citizen with respect and fairness, regardless of their background.’
The Commandant of Police College Ikeja, Lagos, CP Omolara Ibidun Oloruntola stated: ‘Today marks a significant milestone in the lives of these young officers who have undergone physical, intellectual and academic training to become part of our esteemed institution. They have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving our dear country Nigeria and we are proud to have them as part of our team.’
To the new officers, she said: ‘Uphold uprightness and abide by the concept of community policing as it is the best legal practice. You should bear in mind the principle of fundamental human rights as entrenched in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’
The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (retd) was ably represented by Mrs Ajayi Daniel. He assured the new officers that the Commission ‘will continue to support you and ensure that your career progression will be predictable and within the requirements of established rules and regulations. I believe that you are aware of the constitutional mandate of the Commission which is provided in section 153 of the 1999 Constitution as amended. The Police Service Commission is vested with the powers to appoint, which includes recruitment, enlistment, etc.’
‘I charge you to go out and reciprocate the Government’s good gesture and strive to work in partnership with other security agencies to eliminate or reduce the security challenges currently bedeviling our beloved nation. Let me inform you that the Commission will closely monitor your activities from today and will not hesitate to stand on anyone who deviates from the time-tested established police rules of engagement. We will also commend and recognize the commitment to duty.’
Awards were presented to the best three Constables for their exemplary performances during the period of the training. The awardees are: Overall best recruits for specialist:- Recruits No 0624 Akanji Khadijah; Overall best recruit for drill:- Recruit No 0018 Ekungbami Daniel; and Overall best recruit for general duty: Recruit no 0231 Ojo Samuel.
