Nation-Building Through Professional Policing: A Commendation Of President Tinubu And The Nigeria Police Leadership -By Adewole Kehinde

The commissioning of 1,187 cadets of Regular Course 7 into the Nigeria Police Force as Assistant Superintendents of Police marks yet another significant stride in the ongoing transformation of our national security architecture. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deserves resounding commendation for this milestone, which reflects his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening internal security and building a modern, professional police force.

Equally deserving of praise is the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, whose leadership, dedication, and strategic focus made the successful graduation of the 1,187 new ASPs possible. His steadfast efforts in reshaping the recruitment and training standards of the Police Academy have set a new benchmark for policing excellence in Nigeria.

I must particularly applaud the resilience, discipline, and dedication of the newly commissioned Assistant Superintendents of Police. Enduring five years of intensive academic and professional training at the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State, is no small feat. The colourful Passing Out Parade (POP) was more than a ceremonial rite; it symbolised the emergence of a new generation of officers equipped with the competence, knowledge, and moral grounding required for modern policing.

These cadets have earned not only their commissions as officers but also Bachelor’s degrees in various academic disciplines. This unique blend of academic qualifications and professional training ensures that they are well prepared to serve Nigeria with distinction in a rapidly evolving security environment.

As the IGP rightly reminded them, “effective policing rests on character, discipline, and professionalism.” It is a message the new ASPs must carry like a compass throughout their careers.

The responsibility before them, protecting lives and property, maintaining law and order, and rebuilding public trust in the Nigeria Police Force, demands nothing less than unwavering integrity and steadfast devotion to duty.

President Tinubu also charged them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect for human rights. Indeed, it is my firm expectation that these officers will make the Nigeria Police Force proud by embodying these values in every assignment and interaction with the public.

As we celebrate this achievement, I call on the Federal Government to sustain, if not deepen, its commitment to comprehensive police reform, improved welfare for personnel, and enhanced operational capabilities.

A well-equipped, well-motivated, and well-trained police force remains the backbone of national security and democratic stability.

Finally, Nigerians must be reminded that the determination of the Nigeria Police Force to continue producing highly trained, educated, and professional officers capable of addressing contemporary security challenges is not negotiable.

The commissioning of these 1,187 new ASPs is a testament to that resolve, and a promising sign of a safer future for all.

Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kemnnyadewole 08166240846