In a stark revelation that underscores the challenges faced by Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies, Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun has decried the severe underfunding of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), highlighting its detrimental impact on the force’s operational capacity.
Speaking at a recent event in Abuja, IGP Egbetokun painted a grim picture of the NPF’s financial constraints, emphasizing that some police stations across the country lack even a single operational vehicle. This dire situation, he asserted, severely hampers the force’s ability to effectively combat crime and maintain public order.
“We have almost 6,000 divisional police headquarters across the country, with each requiring a minimum of four operational vehicles,” IGP Egbetokun stated. “While some stations have operational vehicles, many others cannot boast of even a single one.”
The IGP’s comments echo long-standing concerns regarding the NPF’s inadequate resources. The force has consistently grappled with budgetary constraints, leading to shortages of essential equipment, training opportunities, and personnel.
“The United Nations recommends a police-to-population ratio of one officer to 400 people,” IGP Egbetokun explained. “In Nigeria, however, the ratio is a staggering 1,000 people to one police officer. This is grossly inadequate, and it is a major challenge we face in effectively policing the country.”
The IGP’s lamentations highlight the delicate balance between public expectations and the NPF’s operational capabilities. While Nigerians rightfully demand effective policing and law enforcement, the force’s ability to meet these demands is severely hampered by its financial limitations.
“Our personnel are operating in a very difficult environment as a result of the neglect they have suffered over the years,” IGP Egbetokun lamented. “This neglect has led to a lack of motivation and morale among our officers, which further hinders our efforts to combat crime.”
The IGP’s call for increased funding for the NPF is not a mere plea for financial assistance; it is a cry for a fundamental shift in the government’s approach to public safety. Adequate funding for the NPF is not a luxury; it is a necessity for the effective protection of lives and property in Nigeria.
The Nigerian government must recognize the NPF’s critical role in maintaining law and order, and it must provide the force with the resources it needs to fulfill its mandate. Without adequate funding, the NPF’s ability to combat crime, protect citizens, and maintain public order will continue to be severely compromised.
The time for inaction is over. The Nigerian government must act urgently to address the NPF’s financial constraints and ensure that the force has the resources it needs to effectively safeguard the nation.