Police Graduate 20,000 Recruits As IGP Egbetokun Pledges Reforms, 30,000 Recruits Annually
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, has announced the successful recruitment and graduation of 20,000 new police constables since his assumption of office, reaffirming the Force’s commitment to modern, community-centred policing and ongoing institutional reforms.
Speaking at the Passing-Out Parade ceremony of the 2022/2023 batch of Police Constables, held simultaneously across all Police Colleges and Training Schools nationwide, Egbetokun described the exercise as a major step in strengthening internal security and restoring public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.
Today marks a historic step in our collective journey to strengthen the foundation of policing in our country,” the IGP said. “These young men and women have taken a solemn oath to serve their nation with courage, loyalty, and integrity.”
Egbetokun explained that the recruits had undergone six months of rigorous training covering modern policing techniques, ethical standards, human rights, and intelligence-led operations to prepare them for the complex realities of law enforcement in the 21st century.
The curriculum emphasised community partnership, discipline, and respect for human rights,” he said. “I am confident that the knowledge and discipline imparted to them will reflect in their conduct and in their service to Nigerians.”
The IGP lauded President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s support through the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said had led to renewed investment in police manpower, logistics, and welfare. He revealed that President
Tinubu had approved the recruitment of an additional 30,000 constables annually over the next few years to close manpower gaps and enhance security delivery nationwide.
Shortly after this passing-out ceremony, machinery will be set in motion for the implementation of the Presidential approval for the recruitment of 30,000 Constables yearly,” he stated.
Egbetokun noted that the move reflects the Federal Government’s determination to build “a modern, reformed, and professional police institution that Nigerians can trust and take pride in.”
In line with the Force’s policy on community-oriented policing, the IGP said most of the new constables would be deployed to their states of origin to strengthen local trust and improve intelligence gathering.
Serve with empathy, fairness, and dedication,” he charged the new officers. “Remember that every action you take reflects not only on you but on the entire Nigeria Police Force.”
He cautioned the new officers against corruption, extortion, and abuse of power, describing policing as “not merely a job but a sacred duty.”
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,” he warned.
Egbetokun also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his steadfast support; the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam; and the Police Service Commission led by DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd) for ensuring transparency and merit in the recruitment process. He further commended DIG Frank Mba, Commandants, and Instructors of Police Training Institutions for their dedication and professionalism.
Their tireless efforts have shaped these young officers into disciplined and competent professionals ready to serve their fatherland,” he said.
The IGP assured Nigerians that the Police Force remains committed to protecting lives and property, enforcing the law without fear or favour, and upholding high standards of accountability and service delivery.
Together, we can secure our nation and create an environment where every Nigerian can live, work, and thrive without fear,” Egbetokun concluded.
He congratulated the graduating constables and their families, urging them to uphold honour, diligence, and patriotism in service to the nation.
