Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, has urged the 531 constables who passed out from the Police Training School yesterday in Jos, to protect and defend the laws of the country.

He pointed out that during their training, they had been exposed to modern policing standards, ethical values and field operations to prepare them for the complex realities of law enforcement in the 21st century.

Egbetokun, who was represented by the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, said the constables had taken a solemn oath to serve their nation with courage, loyalty and integrity.

He added that their transition from civilians to sworn police officers marked the beginning of a live-long commitment to protect and defend the laws of the land, adding that their curriculum emphasised respect for human rights and judicious application of authorities.

The police chief said he is confident that the knowledge and discipline imparted to them would reflect in their professional conduct and contributions to safer communities across the federation.

He stressed that the approval of 30,000 recruitments in the next few years by the President demonstrates his unwavering commitment to addressing manpower gaps in policing and enhancing security delivering nationwide.

Egbetokun pointed out that immediately after the passing out parade yesterday, machinery would be set in motion to ensure that the 30,000 recruitments yearly would be realized.

THIS is even as the Police Service Commission (PSC) has charged the new constables to contribute meaningfully to the fight against terrorism, assist in securing communities from banditry, and strengthen the bond of trust between the police and the Nigerian people.

In a statement by the Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, the commission also emphasised that professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights must remain the foundation of their service.

Chairman of the commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), delivered the charge during their passing-out parade.

Congratulating the new constables graduating from various Police Colleges across the country, Argungu said the event marked a proud moment for both Nigeria and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

He noted that the commission, which is constitutionally mandated to recruit into the NPF, is proud to have overseen their admission into the noble profession of policing.