IGP charge new constables to uphold integrity, shun corruption, serve with empathy

 The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, has charged newly graduated police constables to uphold integrity, shun corruption, and serve with empathy as the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) concludes the passing out of 20,000 recruits nationwide.

The IGP, who was represented by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, AIG Fayoade, Adegoke, spoke with journalists at the pass out parade ceremony held at the Police College, Ikeja, declared the occasion a "historic step" in strengthening national security.

IGP Egbetokun noted that the 20,000 recruits passed out today across all police colleges and training schools mark the total recruitment since his assumption of office. He stressed that the six months of intensive training emphasized modern policing standards designed to tackle 21st-century realities of Nigerian Police Force (NPF).

"The curriculum emphasized community partnership, intelligence-led policing, respect for human rights, and the judicial use of authority," the IGP stated. "I am confident that the knowledge and discipline imparted to them will reflect in their professional conduct."

In line with the policy of community-oriented policing, the IGP announced a strategic deployment plan where the majority of the new constables have been deployed to their states of origin. This measure is aimed at fostering local trust, improving intelligence gathering, and deepening police-community collaboration.

The IGP issued a stern warning to the new officers: "Show corruption, extortion, and abuse of power. The uniform you wear is a symbol of trust, and it must never be used to intimidate or oppress the people you are sworn to protect."

The IGP highlighted the Federal Government's unwavering commitment to addressing manpower gaps in the NPF

He lauded the President, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu for his approval for the recruitment of an additional 30,000 constables yearly, with machinery set to begin for its implementation shortly after the current ceremony.

"Under my leadership, the Nigeria Police Force remains fully aligned with this vision and is committed to building a modern, reform, and professional institution that Nigeria can trust and take pride in," he asserted.

The IGP also extended appreciation to the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Dr. Ibrahim Geydem, and the Police Service Commission, led by DIG Ashimu Aragungu (Rtd), for their continuous support and for ensuring transparency and merit in the recruitment process.

The ceremony concluded with a call to the new constables to "Serve Nigeria with honor, courage, and humility," reminding them that policing is a "sacred duty" where the true measure of success lies in the safety, peace, and confidence of the communities they serve.