The Police Service Commission (PSC) has called for stronger protection of its constitutional mandate and increased funding to enhance its operations. This call was made on Monday, August 25, 2025, during a courtesy visit by a Presidential delegation led by Hadiza Bala Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination and Head of the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit.
The high-level engagement focused on identifying areas of support needed to boost the Commission’s efficiency and service delivery.
Speaking during the meeting, PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), expressed concerns about what he described as inadequate funding and persistent attempts by vested interests to interfere with the Commission’s mandate. He emphasized that these challenges have hindered the PSC from effectively carrying out its statutory roles in police recruitment, promotion, and discipline.
DIG Argungu also highlighted issues such as limited nationwide presence, institutional conflicts, inadequate data flow from the Nigeria Police Force, and a trust deficit among the public. He urged the Presidential team to help the Commission secure operational independence and ensure an end to undue interference.
“One of the key problems the Police Service Commission is facing is unnecessary interference into its constitutional and statutory mandate,” he said, recommending a direct budgeting process for the Commission in line with the PSC Act of 2001, which empowers it to submit its budget estimates directly to the President.
Responding, Hadiza Bala Usman commended the Commission’s commitment to accountability and professionalism and pledged the Presidency’s support in addressing the challenges.
“We will ensure you are allowed to do your work. We will de-bottleneck the problems and make sure the PSC stands alone and not as an attachment to any Ministry,” she assured.
She added that the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the PSC and the Ministry of Police Affairs and clarifying the PSC’s role in achieving the government’s agenda of strengthening national security for peace and prosperity.
The PSC delegation at the meeting included Justice Paul Adamu Galumje (rtd), Commissioner representing the Judiciary; DIG Taiwo Lakanu (rtd), Commissioner representing the Police; and Chief Onyemuchi Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission.