Best time to join Police is now’ – PSC urges youths

The Police Service Commission (PSC) on Wednesday called on Nigerian youths to take advantage of the ongoing reforms in the Nigeria Police Force and enlist, describing the period as the “best time” to join the service.

A member of the commission and retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), Taiwo Lakanu, made the appeal during an assessment tour of the Ogun State Police Command headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta, as part of the ongoing nationwide recruitment exercise.

Lakanu explained that the recruitment exercise was in line with the Federal Government’s directive to increase the strength of the Force by 50,000 personnel.

He expressed satisfaction with the turnout of applicants in Ogun State, noting that it reflects growing interest and renewed confidence in the police.

We have been to several states, and I am impressed with what is on ground here. It shows that the people of Ogun State are interested. There are a lot of reforms going on in the Force; this is the best time to be in the police,” he said.

He assured that only qualified candidates would be recruited, stressing that merit remains the guiding principle of the exercise.

“I will ensure that those who are qualified are given the opportunity. The message to Nigerian youths is that they should strive to become members of the Nigeria Police Force,” Lakanu added.

The retired DIG encouraged young Nigerians to see policing as a rewarding career, highlighting improved welfare packages, better salary structures and opportunities for advancement.

“I was a police officer and I enjoyed the job. There are good salaries, better prospects, and opportunities for training. While in service, officers can attend courses and rise to become senior officers. It is an interesting and fulfilling career,” he stated.

Addressing concerns over low participation from some regions, particularly the Southwest, Lakanu attributed the trend to prevailing socio-economic factors and negative perceptions about the profession.

Some people find the job repugnant or judge the police by what they see on the roads, but there is nothing wrong in being a police officer. It is a noble and interesting profession,” he said.

On security, Lakanu maintained that the police are making steady progress in tackling crime, expressing optimism that ongoing reforms and leadership changes would further strengthen operations.

“Operationally, from our assessment, the police have never had it this good. There is a new Inspector-General, and we are confident improvements will continue. The President and the Federal Government are committed, and we are winning the war against crime,” he said.

Lakanu also commended officers and men of the Ogun State Command, describing it as one of the best in the country.

This is one of the best commands we have. They have a dynamic and highly cerebral Commissioner of Police, supported by excellent officers. The relatively low crime rate in Ogun State is a testament to their professionalism, and we are confident it will get even better,” he added.

Culled from vanguard