In a significant revelation on Saturday during a programme on Channels TV, Sunrise Daily, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming the country’s paramilitary services through the establishment of a National Paramilitary Academy. The Minister highlighted the pressing need for such an institution, emphasising that it would not only provide education but also mould graduates into competent officers ready to serve in various paramilitary roles.
In a programme watched by Starnews Reporter, Tunji Ojo articulated the vision for the academy, stating, “We employ graduates, but we do not mold graduates. What we want is a system where, once a Nigerian student finishes secondary school and writes JAMB, they can immediately enter the academy — a degree-awarding institution. There, they will undergo four to five years of structured training.” This “catch-them-young” model aims to cultivate a new generation of officers who are not only skilled but also imbued with the values essential for effective service.
The Minister further elucidated the need for a comprehensive training approach, noting, “Let me give an example: today, many officers we recruit — and even many currently serving in the Nigerian Correctional Service — do not fully understand what it means to be a correctional officer.” He explained that foundational courses, such as psychology, would be integral to the curriculum, as the role of a correctional officer extends beyond mere management of inmates to encompass rehabilitation and transformation.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the initiative, Tunji Ojo remarked, “Mr. President is very keen on this initiative because it is about building structure, building a sustainable system, and building legacy.” He expressed confidence in the plan, indicating that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has already directed the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to draft an Executive Bill for submission to the National Assembly. “We are confident that our colleagues in the National Assembly will do the needful, and once it is passed and signed into law, we can proceed fully,” he added.
The Minister outlined an ambitious timeline for the academy’s establishment, aiming for completion within a year, which includes not just the legislative process but also curriculum development and the necessary structural setup. “This is a legacy project,” he stated, underscoring the importance of meticulous planning and execution.
This announcement comes as a welcome surprise to many Nigerians, who may not have been aware of the government’s commitment to enhancing the training and professionalism of paramilitary forces. With the establishment of the National Paramilitary Academy, the hope is to create a more effective and well-rounded approach to national security, moving away from the outdated “one-size-fits-all” methods of the past. As the initiative progresses, the public will be watching closely to see how it unfolds and contributes to the future of Nigeria’s security landscape.
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