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Chiemelie Ezeobi 

The Nigerian Police Trust Fund (NPTF) Executive Secretary, Mohammad Sheidu, has expressed commitment to improving the infrastructure and standards of police training facilities across the country, bringing them closer to world standards.

Sheidu, who made this pledge during an assessment tour of the Nigerian Police Force College in Lagos with members of the National Assembly and committee members, addressed key areas needing attention, such as power and water supply, as well as repairing leaking dormitory roofs.

Speaking on the need for transparency, Sheidu assured that the NPTF would implement a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework for all projects to guarantee accountability. 

He said, “One of the things we stand for is integrity and accountability. And as I mentioned, I didn’t come here alone to assess this place. I am here with National Assembly members of the country.”

While explaining the role of the monitoring team and the importance for project oversight, he said: “We would as a team have a monitoring and evaluation team. I am here to see what it is that is needed.

” We will get an assessment and by time work starts, there are teams that are going to enable and ensure that, as the project progresses, we embark on what is needed, like lighting, solar installations, or rehabilitation. These teams will monitor the projects from inception to completion.”

The executive secretary’s Lagos tour included inspections of training facilities, dormitories, hostels, and kitchens at the Police College, Police Cottage Clinic; and Police Hospital Area F in Ikeja; Shogunle Police Station; and Alakuko Police Station. 

 Sheidu noted various issues impacting the college, underscoring that projects would be prioritised to improve the welfare of officers in training.

 “I can guarantee you, as I said earlier, it is more about accountability and transparency, and that is why I didn’t come here alone. I came with people who will be able to stand for and vouch for this process.”

Sheidu also shared his impressions after visiting facilities in other states, including Rivers, which he found in worse condition compared to Lagos. 

While expressing satisfaction with the state of Lagos facilities, he however said there was need for further improvement. 

“From the assessment, like I said earlier, it is a needs assessment, and we will be nationwide. Luckily, I also went to states like Rivers, so the disappointment in a state like Rivers and coming to Lagos—I’m actually happier coming here.”

Pointing out areas that require immediate attention, while acknowledging the longstanding issues with certain structures, he said: “I know what we need to do here is to actually do more. We saw some leaking roofs and things like that—debilitated places—so we will be able to come and rehabilitate them” 

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Police Affairs, Abubakar Yalleman, who joined Sheidu on the tour, praised the Lagos facilities, particularly the efforts of the college’s commandant and his team. 

He described the facilities as impressive and commended the staff’s work in maintaining them. “I commend the secretary for carrying us along as he said transparency and accountability is also his motive.”

Yalleman emphasised the committee’s role in ensuring the proper allocation and utilisation of funds, as mandated by Sections 88 and 89 of Nigeria’s constitution. 

He further praised the executive secretary for his dedication to transparency, saying, “I commend the secretary for carrying us along as he said transparency and accountability is what is also his motive.”

The commandant of the Nigeria Police College, Fasuba Akinyele, expressed his gratitude for Sheidu’s visit, describing it as a morale booster for the college. 

“I’m impressed that he fulfilled his promise. It’s marvelous and a great achievement for us. His visit shows he considers us among many colleges.”

The commandant highlighted the college’s structured communication system, which allows trainees to report issues directly to designated officers, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly. 

He explained, “The trainees can report issues to their General Number One (G1), who then informs the course officer”, adding that the system ensures seamless information flow and prompt issue resolution.”

Sheidu’s visit and the pledge for enhanced support have been well-received by both officials and trainees, reinforcing the NPTF’s mission to uphold transparency and make substantial improvements to policing standards across Nigeria.