PSC, Police Affairs Ministry Forge Strategic Alliance to Strengthen Police Reforms

By Iyojo Ameh

In a move aimed at improving police accountability and service delivery, the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Ministry of Police Affairs have formalized a new partnership to enhance the efficiency and citizen-focus of the Nigeria Police Force.

During a courtesy visit on Wednesday, May 7, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police Affairs, Dr. Anuma Ogbonnaya, led a high-level delegation to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja. The visit marks a renewed commitment to institutional collaboration between the two agencies tasked with oversight and policy direction for the nation’s police service.

The delegation was received by the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Hashimu Argungu, mni, alongside other top officials including Justice Paul Adamu Galumje (rtd), Hon. Commissioner representing the Judiciary; DIG Taiwo Lakanu (rtd), Hon. Commissioner representing the Police; and Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission.

In a statement signed by PSC spokesperson Ikechukwu Ani, DIG Argungu welcomed the initiative and described it as a timely step toward deepening inter-agency cooperation. “There must be robust collaboration between police oversight agencies to ensure effective and efficient policing,” Argungu said, adding, “Mutual respect and regular consultation are essential. This is a promising start.”

Permanent Secretary Ogbonnaya emphasized the importance the Ministry places on the Commission’s mandate, noting that closer ties would better serve the shared mission of improving Nigeria’s internal security framework. “Our mandates are intrinsically linked,” he stated, “and effective collaboration is key to achieving our common goals.”

He also commended the PSC’s role in overseeing recruitment, discipline, promotions, and the general welfare of police personnel, describing the Commission’s independence and adherence to professionalism as critical to building public trust.

Dr. Ogbonnaya concluded by highlighting key areas where improved synergy could deliver significant results, especially in reforming the Nigeria Police Force to be more transparent, responsive, and accountable to the public.