By Sunny A. David, Awka
The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed delight over the growing number of young people from the State joining the Nigeria Police Force through the cadet scheme.
Governor Soludo made this known yesterday during the official handover of 30 operational vehicles by the Anambra State Government to the Nigeria Police Force.
The occasion also featured the formal presentation of newly commissioned Police Cadet Officers of Anambra origin by the Commissioner of Police in the State, CP Ikioye Orutugu.
Addressing the cadets, the Governor described their decision to pursue a career in law enforcement as brave and worthy of commendation. He noted that there was a time when joining security agencies was largely discouraged among youths in the State, a perception he said is now changing for the better.
“It gives me great joy to see young Ndi Anambra proudly joining the Police force. There was a period when this career path was almost viewed negatively, but today, I am encouraged that you have chosen to serve the nation through this noble profession,” Soludo said.
He further encouraged the cadet officers to see themselves as future leaders of the Nigeria Police Force, stressing that the institution belongs to them.
“This Police force is yours. From among you will emerge future Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police, and other senior officers who will shape the future of law enforcement in Nigeria,” the Governor added.
Governor Soludo also expressed satisfaction that Anambra State is beginning to record positive milestones, particularly in youth participation in national service.
“I am happy that Ndi Anambra now have tangible achievements to celebrate,” he stated.
Earlier, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, described the development as a proud moment for the State. He revealed that the number of Anambra indigenes recently commissioned as cadet Assistant Superintendents of Police was unprecedented.
According to him, the figure surpasses by more than tenfold the number recorded during his own time as a cadet officer in the former Rivers State, highlighting the increasing willingness of Anambra youths to embrace careers in policing and national service.
