One Hundred and Nine (109) personnel of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have been Commissioned as pioneer Armed Squad of the foremost anti-graft agency.
It would be recalled that the Federal Government, through the Office of the National Security Adviser had approved the request by the Commission to bear arms.
At the graduation ceremony held at the Aguiyi Ironsi Cantonment, Asokoro Abuja on Wednesday, the Chairman of ICPC, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN congratulated the graduands just as he described their commissioning into the elite armed squad of Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies as a significant milestone not only for them (graduands) but for the Commission, which is determined to build the capacity of its workforce for the responsibility of ridding the nation of corruption and similar vices.
The ICPC Boss, who was represented at the ceremony by the Commission’s Director of Operations, Mr. Shehu Yahaya also noted that the skills acquired in the course of the one-month intensive training would no doubt inspire the graduands to serve the Commission diligently.
He said “To the pioneer officers of the Commission standing before us today, I congratulate you on this milestone achievement. Completing the armed squad training is no mean feat. It is a testament to your resilience, discipline and unwavering commitment to excellence.
“Over the past one month, you have been tested in ways that demanded your physical strength, mental focus and moral fortitude. You have emerged not only stronger but also prepared to lead, inspire and serve.
“As you leave the training ground and step into the responsibilities that awaits you, remember the values instilled in you in this journey: loyalty, integrity, courage and professionalism. These are not just mere words; they are the pillars upon which you will build your careers and define your person as future leaders in the Commission.”
The Chairman however urged the personnel that while the skills acquired and competence may serve them well in the course of their career, their character and discipline would go a long way as “true leadership is not just about giving orders but earning respect, building trust and standing as an example to those to come behind.”
In his special remarks, the Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brigadier-General AO. Onasanya stated that the graduation of the pioneer ICPC Armed personnel formed a critical component of government’s effort to enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies to tackle corruption and other related offences.
He said “As officers of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, you have a crucial role to play in promoting transparency, accountability and good governance in our nation. The training we exposed you to has equipped you with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle firearms safely and effectively as well as the values of discipline, integrity and professionalism that are essential for success in your careers.
“You are now part of an elite group of law enforcement officers who bear arms and are well prepared to face the challenges of tackling corruption and other related offences. As you go forth to carry out your duties, I charge you to remain vigilant, focused and committed to the highest standards of excellence. Remember that the power vested in you is not only a privilege but also a responsibility to protect and serve the citizens of this country with integrity and honour.” he said.
Earlier in his address, the Commanding Officer of 177 Guards Battalion of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel AB Inuwa congratulated the graduands saying their conducts in the course of the training was commendable, as no disciplinary cases were recorded.
He said the one-month training covered areas including weapon handling, physical training, signal communication, first aid, foot and arms drill, leadership and basic skills.
“The training was divided into three phases: theoretical, practical, and range classification. The weapons covered included the AK-47 rifle, Tavor, Pistol, and FN Rifle. Participants were assessed on theoretical knowledge, practical application, live firing skills. The overall performance was rated above average, reflecting their commitment to excellence.” he said.
The highpoint of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates to the graduands as well as merit awards to the most outstanding trainees and the best male and female shooters.
