Barau: National Assembly Ready to Strengthen Police System
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin says the National Assembly is committed to supporting efforts aimed at strengthening and reforming the Nigeria Police Force.
Speaking on Monday while representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the induction and strategic management session for members of the Police Service Commission (PSC) in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Barau assured that lawmakers are ready to back reforms that will make the police more professional, accountable, and people-centered.
He conveyed Akpabio’s message to the newly inaugurated PSC board members, describing their appointment as a call to duty and a responsibility to leave a lasting impact.
“You have been entrusted with a mission to reform, to lead, and to serve. Seize this moment to leave the police system better than you met it,” he said.
Barau urged the new board to go beyond formalities and focus on meaningful reforms that restore public trust in the police. He said Nigeria needs a police system that functions not as a force of fear, but as a pillar of justice and public service.
“This is not a time for business as usual. The police must be seen as protectors, not predators,” he stressed.
Highlighting successful global models, Barau encouraged the board to study community policing practices in countries like Japan and Finland, where the police build trust through empathy, engagement, and peaceful conflict resolution. He also pointed to Singapore’s approach—built on merit, transparency, and accountability—as a standard Nigeria should emulate.
“We must embrace merit over mediocrity and integrity over impunity,” Barau said, calling for a culture that rewards honest officers and discourages corruption.
“The officer who refuses a bribe must be recognised, celebrated, and supported. Integrity must never go unrewarded,” he added.
Barau also emphasized the need for the police to modernize by adopting technology, using data for smarter deployments, and relying on intelligence to act effectively.
He assured the PSC of the National Assembly’s readiness to amend outdated laws, support new reforms, and provide strong legislative oversight to ensure a responsive and trustworthy police system.
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