The Kano State Police Command has passed out 250 police officers after they successfully completed a one-month intensive combat and weapon-handling training.
The passing-out ceremony was held at the Parade Ground of the No. 9 Police Mobile Force (PMF), Hotoro, Kano.
In a statement signed by the Kano State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the command said the training was conducted simultaneously at No. 9 PMF, Hotoro, and No. 52 PMF, Challawa, as part of efforts to enhance the operational readiness and professionalism of personnel in line with the strategic vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu.
The Commanding Officer, No. 9 PMF, ACP Afeez Oyekan, said the officers, drawn from the rank and file, underwent rigorous training in modern weapon handling, marksmanship, combat tactics and tactical manoeuvres.
He said the training also exposed the officers to jungle and asymmetric-threat response techniques, among others.
Oyekan said the initiative demonstrated the commitment of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, to improving the quality of personnel for effective service delivery and combat readiness.
Addressing the graduating officers, Bakori commended them for their resilience, discipline and dedication throughout the training.
He said the officers were also trained in human rights, the use of force and firearms, public relations, intelligence-led policing, Improvised Explosive Device (IED) recognition and response, and community-based policing.
The commissioner announced that the 250 officers would be deployed to border Local Government Areas of the state to strengthen security and improve rapid response to distress calls.
“In line with our operational priorities, the 250 officers graduating today will be deployed to border Local Government Areas of Kano State.
“This strategic deployment is designed to strengthen border security, enhance our presence in frontline communities, and improve our rapid response to distress calls.
“You are, therefore, our first line of defence, and I charge you to justify the confidence reposed in you,” he said.
Bakori urged the officers to remain vigilant and professional while being firm but fair and respecting the fundamental rights of law-abiding citizens.
He stressed that the use of firearms must always be guided by the rule of law and respect for human dignity.
The commissioner also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to continuous capacity building through regular in-house refresher training to enhance the effectiveness and safety of its personnel.
He appreciated the Department of Operations, the commanding officers of the two PMF formations, instructors and other members of the training team for their contributions to the success of the exercise.
Bakori also thanked the Kano State Government, led by Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf, and residents of the state for their continued support and partnership with the police.
He subsequently declared the one-month intensive combat and weapon-handling training for the second batch of 250 officers closed and directed the personnel to proceed to their new assignments.
