The New Experience Newspapers Online News Indepth, Analysis and More
Strategic Leadership Key to Reforming Nigeria Police Force, Says Argungu
By prince Benson Davies
The Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (Rtd), has emphasized the importance of strategic leadership and good corporate governance in reforming the Nigeria Police Force. Argungu made this call while addressing newly promoted Deputy Inspectors-General of Police and Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, urging them to prioritize innovation, transparency, and accountability in their leadership roles.
The induction programme was organized by the Police Reform Secretariat in conjunction with the UNDP, CLEEN Foundation, and the Federal Government of Germany.
“The Nigeria Police Force must get better at anticipating emerging issues and thinking innovatively. In today’s digital world, old methods of intelligence gathering are obsolete,” DIG Argungu stated. He referenced Peter Drucker’s principle of “Innovate or Die,” urging the new management team to leverage technology, particularly in the areas of electronic evidence and cybercrime, to remain effective in the 21st century and Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The PSC Chairman highlighted the importance of the Federal Government’s Corporate Governance Manual, outlining the responsibilities, duties, and liabilities of Board Members (Force Management Team). He noted that accountability, transparency, and integrity are non-negotiable, stating that police officers are answerable not only to the law but also to the government, the National Assembly, the Police Service Commission, and the general public.
He further identified common complaints against police officers, including arbitrary arrests, unlawful searches, and the use of excessive force, urging the new leadership to address these issues to rebuild public confidence. DIG Argungu outlined crucial modules for induction training, including ethical standards, financial regulations, and the role of external oversight mechanisms.
The event, which took place at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, brought together key stakeholders including the Ministry of Police Affairs and the National Human Rights Commission to foster a cordial relationship among the Police Service Commission, Nigeria Police Force, and the Police Reform Secretariat. DIG Argungu described the forum as a unique opportunity to contribute to the examination of public sector governance, professionalism, and ethical conduct within the Nigeria Police Force.
