…….Police Service Commission Bill is deemed crucial for the security and efficient administration of the Nigeria Police
By Fatima Saka
A Bill to Establish the Police Service Commission Institute has successfully passed its second reading in the Senate on Thursday.
The bill aims to function as a central institution for the administration and management of the institute, as well as determining the standard of knowledge and skills required by the personnel of the police service commission for its oversight functions over the Nigeria Police Force and other related matters.
Sponsored by Senator Abdulhamid, Mallam-Madori Ahmed representing Jigawa North East Senatorial Districts, who also serves as the chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs.
During the presentation of the lead debate on the Senate floor, Senator Ahmed underscored the significance of the bill for the security and effective administration of Nigerian Police.
He emphasized that the bill establishes a Center for the Administration and Management of the Commission, aimed at enhancing the standard of knowledge and skills of the Police Service Commission in overseeing the functions of the Nigeria Police Force.
The Chairman of the Committee of Police Affairs, reiterated that effective oversight of any security institution is vital in promoting accountability, transparency, and professionalism. “The Nigeria Police Force plays a pivotal role in maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, and ensuring public safety. Nevertheless, like any large organization, it necessitates structured oversight to ensure its personnel abide by the law, uphold human rights, and maintain public trust.
“The Police Service Commission, being the oversight body for the Nigeria Police Force, is mandated to oversee the promotion, discipline, recruitment, and general administration of the Nigeria Police Force.
“However, oversight is a challenging task. The role of the PSC demands personnel who are not only proficient in management but also well-versed in law enforcement procedures, human rights, and governance.”
The objectives of the bill are as follows:
-Enhanced Training for Oversight Functions: The Institute will provide advanced training for all categories of Commission staff, ensuring they are equipped with the skills necessary to oversee the Nigeria Police Force effectively, in accordance with modern policing standards.
– Continuous Professional Development: Through conferences, workshops, seminars, and study courses, the Institute will offer continuous education for its staff and other oversight bodies, fostering a culture of lifelong learning and best practices.
– Information Dissemination: The Institute will actively publish reports, journals, and other informational materials to communicate its activities and findings, thereby contributing to transparency and public accountability.
– Promotion of Inter-Agency and Global Cooperation: It will serve as a hub for collaboration, promoting cooperation and harmony between oversight bodies, both locally and internationally, in order to strengthen policing structures.
– Research and Dialogue Center: The Institute will provide a platform for distinguished academics, policymakers, and practitioners to engage in research and dialogue on national and global oversight issues, fostering innovation and thought leadership in police oversight.
– Strategic Oversight Skills Development: The Institute will equip its staff with the skills and capabilities necessary for strategic oversight, ensuring they can address complex challenges in policing oversight and governance.
– Awarding Postgraduate Degrees: The Institute will serve as an academic center offering postgraduate diplomas and degrees in oversight management, thereby contributing to the professionalization of oversight functions.
– Collaboration with Academic Institutions: To achieve its objectives, the Institute will collaborate with universities and other institutions that share its vision, ensuring the development of global best practices in police oversight.
– Strengthening the Relationship Between the PSC and NPF: A trained and professional Police Service Commission will foster a more harmonious and efficient relationship with the NPF. It is important to note that effective oversight is not about creating friction or conflict but about ensuring that the police force is held to high standards and supported in areas where improvements are needed.
