In a renewed effort to strengthen law enforcement oversight and foster a more efficient, accountable, and citizen-focused Nigeria Police Force, the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Ministry of Police Affairs have established a strategic partnership aimed at deepening collaboration between the two key institutions.
The initiative was formalized during a high-level courtesy visit by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police Affairs, Dr. Anuma Ogbonnaya, who led a delegation of Directors and Heads of Departments to the headquarters of the PSC in Abuja. The delegation was received by the Chairman of the Commission, retired Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Hashimu Argungu, mni; Justice Paul Adamu Galumje (rtd), Commissioner representing the Judiciary; DIG Taiwo Lakanu, fdc, Commissioner representing the Police; and Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission. Senior management staff of the Commission were also in attendance.
In an official statement by PSC spokesperson Mr. Ikechukwu Ani, PSC Chairman DIG Argungu described the renewed partnership as “a timely and commendable move” that will enhance inter-agency communication and strengthen police oversight functions.
“There must be robust collaboration between police oversight agencies for effective and efficient policing,” Argungu said. “This partnership marks a good beginning. No one agency can do it alone — mutual respect and regular consultations are imperative for national security.”
Dr. Ogbonnaya, speaking on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, emphasized that the visit underscored the Ministry’s recognition of the critical role the Commission plays in promoting police professionalism and integrity.
“We acknowledge that our mandates are intrinsically linked,” he said. “Effective collaboration is paramount to achieving our shared security goals. The Commission’s independence and its role in recruitment, promotion, discipline, and welfare of police personnel are vital to building public trust and ensuring police effectiveness.”
The Permanent Secretary further identified key areas where closer institutional synergy could yield significant benefits, including human resource management, performance monitoring, and community engagement initiatives.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustained dialogue and joint action to improve policing standards across the country, reinforcing the broader goal of restoring public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.