No fewer than 1,030 new police constables graduated from the Police College Ikeja on Thursday, in which 313 are females.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the 1,030 graduands are part of the 10,000 constables passing out simultaneously from four police colleges and 12 training colleges across the country.
The police constables had undergone six months of highly challenging, rigorous, physical, and intellectual training activities.
Speaking at the passing out parade, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, urged the new officers to demonstrate exceptional professionalism, integrity, and dedication to service.
Egbetokun, represented by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2 Command, Lagos, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, said that the passing-out parade signified a pivotal transition for these individuals.
He said that they were formally assuming their roles as professional police officers leaving their civilian status behind and embarking on a career of service and duty.
According to him, the graduating constables must note that the responsibility of policing requires the highest level of professionalism and integrity, adhering strictly to the rule of law and established procedures.
“Your role demands empathy and compassion towards the civilian populationparticularly the vulnerable, while maintaining firmness and fairness in all interactions.
“Strive to be perceived as a friend and partner to the public, inspiring hope and confidence in the security apparatus.
“The uniform you wear and the office you hold are symbols of trust and responsibility, never to be exploited for intimidation, harassment, or perversion of justice,” he said.
Egbetokun urged them to desist from all form of lawlessness, human rights abuse, and unprofessional conduct, and utilise their authority to protect citizens, enforce laws, and apprehend criminals.
“Throughout your career, demonstrate boldness, responsibility, discipline and loyalty to the Force, while remaining calm and composed in the face of adversity,” he said
The IGP said at a significant number of the newly graduated Police Constables had been posted to their states of origin.
He said that the strategic deployment aimed to augment ongoing law enforcement efforts and reinforce the fight against crime at the grassroots level.
Egbetokun appreciated President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the annual recruitment of 30,000 Police Constables, to strengthen internal security, enhance police performance, and promote optimal police service delivery nationwide.
He also commended the Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam and the Chairman, Police Service Commission, DIG. Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), for their unwavering support during the recruitment exercise, which had been instrumental in shaping the future of the Force.
The Commandant of Police College, Ikeja, Commissioner of Police, Omolara Oloruntola, admonished the graduands to be good ambassadors of the Nigeria Police.
