The Commissioner of Police in Cross River State, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, has reminded police officers that firearms are issued solely for the protection of lives and property and must never be used to intimidate, harass or abuse members of the public.
The Police Commissioner gave the charge on Monday during the closing ceremony and certification of 712 newly trained Corporals and Constables who completed the Musketry and Weapons Handling Training Programme at the 11 Police Mobile Force (PMF) Squadron, Calabar.
Addressing the graduating officers, CP Afegbua stressed that every firearm entrusted to a police officer carries enormous responsibility and should only be deployed in accordance with the law and the highest standards of professionalism.
“Every firearm entrusted to you carries an enormous responsibility. It is issued for the protection of lives and property, the preservation of peace, and the enforcement of the law, not for intimidation or abuse,” the Commissioner stated.
He urged the officers to allow every decision they make in the line of duty to be guided by the rule of law, respect for human rights and ethical policing, adding that professionalism remains the cornerstone of effective law enforcement.
The Commissioner explained that the training programme was organised in line with the strategic vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to strengthen the capacity of police personnel in addressing emerging security challenges through continuous training and professional development.
According to him, the exercise was conducted in three phases between June 1 and June 19, 2026, bringing together personnel from the three senatorial districts of Cross River State. The officers underwent intensive practical and theoretical instruction in musketry, weapons handling, operational safety and responsible use of force.
He noted that the phased training ensured quality instruction, practical hands-on experience and active participation, while reinforcing the Cross River State Police Command's commitment to building a disciplined, skilled and operationally ready workforce capable of responding to contemporary security threats.
CP Afegbua congratulated all 712 officers for successfully completing the programme, describing their achievement as a reflection of discipline, resilience, commitment and readiness to shoulder greater responsibilities in the service of the Nigeria Police Force and the nation.
He, however, reminded them that earning certification was only the beginning of a greater responsibility.
According to the Commissioner, the programme was never intended to merely improve firearms proficiency but to instill discipline, sound judgment, restraint, integrity and accountability in the lawful application of force.
He further urged the newly certified officers to uphold fairness, professionalism and justice in all their interactions with members of the public, noting that every encounter between a police officer and a citizen presents an opportunity to strengthen public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
The Commissioner also commended the Department of Operations, the Commander of the 11 Police Mobile Force Squadron, instructors and other facilitators for their dedication and professionalism throughout the exercise.
On behalf of the Nigeria Police Force and the Cross River State Police Command, CP Afegbua congratulated all 712 officers once again and encouraged them to pursue careers distinguished by honour, excellence, discipline and unwavering dedication to national service.
The ceremony concluded with the formal declaration of the Musketry and Weapons Handling Training Programme closed, marking another milestone in the Cross River State Police Command's ongoing efforts to enhance professionalism, operational efficiency and public safety across the state.
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