By Rejoice Peterside
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to strengthening security operations and enforcing discipline across commands as he passed out 1,068 newly trained armed constables in Akwa Ibom State.
The constables, who underwent intensive firearms and tactical training in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Government, were officially deployed as part of renewed efforts to combat crime and criminality across the state and deepen the Federal Government’s community policing agenda.
The passing-out ceremony marked a significant policy shift in the Force, as it is the first time newly recruited police constables are being trained and authorised to carry firearms immediately after graduation, rather than waiting for years of service before being entrusted with weapons.
Speaking during the ceremony, the IGP said the development reflects the urgent need to strengthen grassroots security and improve police response to emerging security threats across the country.
He noted that the training programme was designed to equip the officers with modern policing skills and combat readiness required for effective service delivery, especially in vulnerable communities where criminal activities remain a major concern.
The intensive training covered arms drill, tactical movement, vehicle interception, counter-ambush operations, debussing under fire, tactical progression, weapon handling and maintenance, movement under fire, introductory combat craft, as well as dry shooting exercises.
While in Akwa Ibom, the police boss also held a strategic meeting with officers of the state command, where he stressed the importance of mentorship, professionalism, and responsible leadership among senior officers.
He charged senior police officers to properly guide and mentor the newly passed-out constables, stressing that the conduct of young officers would reflect the integrity, discipline, and standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
The IGP also issued a stern warning to Commissioners of Police nationwide, reminding them that they would be held vicariously liable for the actions of officers serving under their commands.
He said every CP must take full responsibility for discipline, supervision, and operational control within their respective commands, warning that negligence would no longer be tolerated.
Addressing the recent shooting incident in Delta State involving an Assistant Superintendent of Police, the IGP condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as disgraceful and damaging to the image of the Force.
He disclosed that the officer had been dismissed from service and would be prosecuted in a court of competent jurisdiction.
He further warned that any police officer found violating Force Order 237, which regulates the use of firearms, would face immediate dismissal and prosecution.
According to him, professionalism and accountability must remain the foundation of policing, adding that abuse of power and reckless use of firearms would no longer be excused under any circumstance.
The IGP commended the Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State for what he described as exemplary leadership and innovation, noting that Akwa Ibom became the first state command in the country to issue certificates to the newly trained constables after completion of their tactical programme.
He also expressed appreciation to the Akwa Ibom State Government for its continued support to the Nigeria Police Force, assuring that the Force would reciprocate by intensifying efforts to protect lives and property in the state.
In his closing remarks, the IGP thanked officers of the command for their sacrifices, resilience, and dedication to duty, a gesture that drew loud applause from officers and guests at the ceremony.
Earlier, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, in a vote of thanks, appreciated the IGP for honouring the ceremony despite his demanding national assignment.
He also praised the Commissioners of Police in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States for their cooperation and support, which he said had made his assignment easier.
The AIG further commended the IGP’s decisive handling of the Delta State incident, describing it as a strong message that indiscipline and misconduct would no longer be tolerated within the Force.
He prayed for divine wisdom and strength for the IGP as he continues to lead the Nigeria Police Force through reforms aimed at restoring professionalism, discipline, and public trust.
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