By Adewole Kehinde
The Passing Out Parade of the newly-trained Police constables marks yet another milestone in the ongoing transformation of the Nigeria Police Force under the able leadership of Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM.
The event was not merely ceremonial; it was a bold statement of commitment to the ideals of integrity, professionalism, and service to the nation.
I must commend the IGP for his inspiring charge to the graduating constables to uphold the integrity of the Force and remain steadfast in the fight against corruption and other vices.
His message serves as a timely reminder that the strength of any law enforcement agency lies not just in its numbers but in the character and ethical conduct of its personnel.
By urging them to remain disciplined and accountable, the IGP reinforced the moral foundation on which a credible and trusted police institution must stand.
The graduation of these new constables is undoubtedly a historic step in strengthening national security. In a period when the nation faces evolving security challenges, the addition of well-trained constables offers renewed hope and assurance of improved safety across communities.
These young officers represent the next generation of law enforcers, energetic, motivated, and equipped to serve with integrity.
It is equally commendable that the six months of intensive training the constables underwent emphasised modern policing standards aligned with 21st-century realities.
The IGP has demonstrated an unrelenting commitment to ensuring that every officer is trained to meet contemporary security challenges, from cybercrime and terrorism to community safety and intelligence-driven policing.
This transformation in training methodology underscores the IGP’s determination to modernise the Nigeria Police Force into a responsive and people-centred institution.
One of the most innovative policies of the IGP that deserves special recognition is the community-oriented policing strategy, which ensures that the majority of new constables are deployed to their states of origin.
This strategic deployment plan is a masterstroke, designed to foster local trust, enhance intelligence gathering, and deepen collaboration between the police and the communities they serve.
When officers understand the culture, language, and environment of the people they protect, policing becomes more effective, humane, and inclusive.
The uniform these constables proudly wear is more than just fabric; it is a symbol of trust, sacrifice, and national service. IGP Egbetokun has consistently reminded officers that this sacred uniform must never be used as a tool of intimidation or oppression but rather as a badge of honour to serve and protect citizens with humility and fairness.
This emphasis on ethical service underscores the IGP’s determination to restore the dignity of the police uniform and rebuild public confidence in the Force.
Equally deserving of commendation is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose approval of the recruitment of an additional 30,000 constables yearly reflects a profound commitment to strengthening the nation’s internal security architecture.
This decision complements IGP Egbetokun’s vision for a more robust, modern, and efficient police institution capable of addressing Nigeria’s security needs in the short and long term.
In conclusion, under the pragmatic and visionary leadership of IGP Kayode Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force remains firmly aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Together, they are building a modern, reformed, and professional police institution, one that Nigerians can trust, respect, and take pride in.
The Passing Out Parade of the new constables is not just a celebration of achievement; it is a reaffirmation of hope that a new era of integrity, accountability, and community-driven policing is truly upon us.
Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. 08166240846. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole
