The Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, has charged 712 newly trained Corporals and Constables to uphold discipline, integrity and respect for human rights in the discharge of their duties.
Afegbua gave the charge during the closing ceremony and the certification of the officers who completed a Musketry and Weapons Handling Training Programme at the 11 Police Mobile Force (PMF) Squadron in Calabar.
The Commissioner said the training was conducted in line with the strategic vision of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to strengthen police personnel’s capacity to tackle security challenges and improve public safety through professional training.
He said the programme was organised in three batches covering the three senatorial zones of the state and ran from June 1 to June 19, 2026, during which the 712 officers received intensive training in musketry and weapons handling.
Rashid congratulated the officers on completing the programme, describing their achievement as a reflection of discipline, resilience and readiness to take on greater responsibilities in the Nigeria Police Force.
He said the training was not only focused on firearms handling but also aimed at developing professional, lawful and responsible use of arms.
“Always remember that 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,” he said.
The Commissioner urged the officers to allow their conduct to be guided by the law, integrity, fairness, discipline and commitment to justice, adding that they have been given an opportunity to build public trust and confidence.
“Every interaction with members of the public is an opportunity to build trust, inspire confidence, and strengthen police-community relations. I therefore urge you to discharge your duties with integrity, fairness, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to justice,” he said.
He commended the Department of Operations, the Squadron Commander of 11 PMF Squadron, instructors and facilitators for their dedication throughout the training exercise.
Afegbua declared the Musketry and Weapons Handling Training Programme closed and congratulated the 712 officers.
