Tinubu stresses proactive policing, urging integrity and trust with communities
Abuja, (EPICSTORIAN) – President Bola Tinubu has called on the Nigerian police force (NPF) to expand its responsibilities beyond the traditional scope of law enforcement.
Tinubu criticized the Nigerian police force for limiting itself to policing duties, urging them to serve with honour and compassion, taking a holistic approach to securing the country.
The president, who was represented by his vice President Kasim Shettima during the passing-out parade and commissioning of Regular Officers Course 6 at the Nigeria Police Academy in Wudil, Kano State, said the police force fairness in interacting and engaging with communities is crucial in ensuring their successful fight against crimes.
Tinubu urges Nigerian police force to prioritize compassion, fairness, and proactive community engagement over force.
“Your success will depend largely on your relationship with the communities you serve,” he said.
“Be visible, approachable, and responsive to their needs. Remember, the power of your presence, the quality of your engagement, and the fairness of your actions will define your success—not the use of force,” he stated.
Tinubu said the Police duty extends beyond laws, emphasizing compassion, fairness, and integrity.
He noted that enforcing the law requires compassion, fairness, and professionalism, while upholding human rights and integrity.
“Your role goes beyond enforcing laws; it is about serving with compassion, fairness, and respect for human rights,” the president stated.
“Uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in every situation you face.”
To help address the complex security challenges faced by the NPF, Tinubu revealed his initiative to “inject into the force” and make the police force more attractive, creating opportunities for more younger Nigerians to join.
“This initiative will inject new energy into the force, reduce overworking, and provide more opportunities for young Nigerians to serve their country,” he stressed.
“A well-resourced police force is fundamental to national security, and we are committed to seeing this through.”
The president stressed the importance of community policing and intelligence gathering as key components to improving security nationwide, noting the benefits of the introduction of “modern technology, leveraging data analytics and digital tools to combat crime more effectively”.
His statement, however, conveys the need and the urgency for the police to become more proactive, build trust with the communities, and engage in preventive strategies, playing a greater role in maintaining peace and stability in the country.
Tinubu’s remarks follow rising concerns about the police’s handling of issues such as rising crime, banditry, and communal clashes across Nigeria, one of which was seen during the recent end bad governance protests.
Citizens have often criticized the Nigerian police force for being reactive rather than preventive, with many accusing them of bribery, intimation, and neglecting their duty to protect lives and property as they had sworn under the oath of public service.
The News Summary:
- Tinubu urges Nigerian police to emphasize compassion, fairness, and community engagement.
- Nigerian police must go beyond enforcing laws, says President Tinubu.
- Tinubu stresses proactive policing, urging integrity and trust with communities.
- Police must adopt modern strategies and prioritize professionalism, Tinubu advises.
