The push for a stronger and more accountable police system has taken a new turn. Senior officers were urged to embrace change at a critical moment.
The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (Rtd), delivered a firm message. He called on newly promoted officers to rethink how policing is carried out across the country.
Speaking in Abuja, Argungu addressed Deputy Inspectors-General and Assistant Inspectors-General during a high-level induction programme. The event was designed to shape the future of Nigeria Police reform leadership.
However, his message went beyond routine advice. It focused on deep structural change and better service delivery.
According to him, modern policing must evolve quickly to meet growing challenges. He stressed that old methods can no longer deliver effective results.
“Old methods of intelligence gathering are obsolete. Police must anticipate emerging challenges and think innovatively,” DIG Argungu said.
Moreover, he highlighted the role of technology in improving policing outcomes. Digital tools, he noted, are now essential in fighting crime.
“Technology, especially in electronic evidence and cybercrime management, is key for effective policing in the 21st century,” he added.
Meanwhile, the programme, held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, brought together key stakeholders. These included officials from the Ministry of Police Affairs and the National Human Rights Commission.
In addition, international partners such as the UNDP, CLEEN Foundation, and the German government supported the initiative.
Issues such as unlawful arrests and excessive force were highlighted as serious challenges.
Furthermore, he stressed that accountability must remain central to police operations. Officers, he said, are responsible not only to the law but also to the public.
The Nigeria Police reform leadership agenda was also reinforced through training sessions. Modules covered ethics, financial rules, and oversight systems.
Therefore, the induction programme was seen as more than a formal exercise. It was described as a key step toward rebuilding trust between the police and citizens.
