The Nigeria Police Force has certified 712 newly trained officers in musketry and weapons handling as part of efforts to strengthen operational readiness, enhance professionalism and improve public safety.
The officers, comprising corporals and constables of the Cross River State Police Command, completed the intensive training programme conducted in three batches between 1 and 19 June 2026, at the 11 Police Mobile Force Squadron in Calabar.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, Rashid Afegbua, said the training aligns with the strategic vision of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to build a professional and well-equipped police force capable of addressing modern security challenges.
Afegbua said the phased training provided participants with practical instruction in musketry and weapons handling, ensuring quality learning and operational preparedness.
He described the certification as a milestone in the officers’ professional development, stressing that effective policing requires competence, discipline, integrity, restraint and respect for the rule of law.
“This training is not simply about becoming proficient in the use of firearms. It is about developing the discipline, sound judgement and professionalism required in the lawful, responsible and accountable use of force,” he said.
The Commissioner reminded the officers that firearms are entrusted to them for the protection of lives and property, the preservation of peace and the enforcement of the law. He urged them to carry out their duties with respect for human rights and the highest standards of professional conduct.
He also encouraged them to build public trust through fairness, discipline and integrity, noting that every interaction with members of the public presents an opportunity to strengthen police-community relations.
Afegbua commended the Department of Operations, the leadership of the 11 Police Mobile Force Squadron, instructors and other facilitators for the successful conduct of the programme.
Also speaking, the Cross River State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dr Erasmus Ekpang, described the graduation as a significant milestone for Nigeria’s security architecture and a demonstration of the commitment of security personnel to protecting lives and property.
Ekpang commended the Inspector-General of Police for driving reforms within the Nigeria Police Force and praised the administration of Governor Bassey Otu for its continued support for security agencies through improved welfare, the rehabilitation of security formations and investment in operational readiness.
He urged the newly certified officers to handle their weapons with discipline and responsibility, stressing that every use of force must be guided by justice, professionalism and respect for human rights.
The ceremony featured the presentation of certificates and awards to outstanding participants, as well as demonstrations of weapon handling, tactical formations, combat manoeuvres and obstacle-crossing skills.
