Daud Olatunji
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has expressed concern over the acute manpower shortage in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), noting that the current workload often requires one officer to perform the duties of two.
Addressing officers at the Kwara State Police Command,In a one-day working visit to the state Egbetokun highlighted the challenges faced by the force.
“With approximately 370,000 officers in the Force, it’s evident that there’s a shortage of manpower.
“One policeman today does the job of two policemen,” he emphasized during his visit to the command’s headquarters in Ilorin on Friday.
The police chief empathized with the officers, acknowledging the demanding schedules that often lead to ridicule. “A policeman would close from night duty and resume for morning duty.
“And when he dozes off in public, his photograph would be taken and posted, making ridicule of him. I’m aware of all these,” he stated.
Despite the challenges, IGP Egbetokun assured the officers that “hope is on the way” for the Nigerian police.
He disclosed ongoing efforts to address the manpower deficit, citing President’s recent approval for an increase in yearly recruitment.
“We need to double the strength of the police force in the country, but we cannot do it overnight. We are going to gradually do it, and gradually we will get there,” he explained.
During his visit, the IGP also met with Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq to discuss collaborative initiatives aimed at ensuring the safety and security of the state’s residents.
In his address, the police boss commended the governor for his continuous support of the Nigeria Police Force in maintaining law and order.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
