By ABIODUN LAWAL

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has urged Nigerian youths to apply for the current police recruitment, saying the ongoing reforms make it a golden opportunity to join.

Commission member and retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Taiwo Lakanu, made the call on Wednesday during an assessment visit to the Police Command headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta.

Lakanu said that the recruitment drive is in line with a Federal Government directive aimed at increasing the personnel strength of the Nigeria Police Force by 50,000.

He expressed satisfaction with the turnout of applicants in the state, noting that it signals increasing public confidence in the police.

“There are a lot of reforms going on in the force. This is the best time to be in the police. Those who are qualified will be given the opportunity,” he said.

He urged young Nigerians to consider a career in policing, highlighting improved welfare packages, enhanced salary structures, and opportunities for career advancement.

“You can go for courses while in service and rise to become senior officers. It is an interesting and fulfilling job,” Lakanu added.

Addressing concerns over low participation in some regions, particularly the South-West, he attributed the trend to socio-economic factors and public perception of the job.

He, however, dismissed negative views, stressing that the police profession offered dignity and opportunities.

He said the police were making progress in security, adding that recent leadership changes and reforms were strengthening operations across the country.

He praised the command’s officers for their performance, saying it’s one of the country’s best, with a relatively low crime rate driven by effective leadership and professionalism. (NAN)