This paper explored the historical development of professionalism in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) from 1960 to 1999, analyzing it amid a dynamic historical context. The study utilized historical analysis drawing on primary sources including government reports, police records, and archival materials, alongside secondary scholarly works. It assessed how professionalism, characterized by ethical conduct, accountability, and public trust, evolved within the NPF. The investigation revealed that the force’s colonial origins, extended periods of military rule, and internal challenges significantly influenced its professional standards. Systemic corruption, political interference, inadequate training, and resource shortages emerged as persistent barriers, undermining the NPF’s operational capacity and contributed to public disillusionment. This erosion of professionalism manifested in the force’s struggles to address escalating crime rates and civil disorder, alongside the growing reliance on vigilante groups by communities. By tracing these developments across the post-independence era, the paper underscored the lasting impact of historical factors on the NPF’s institutional framework. These findings illuminated the intricate relationship between historical context and law enforcement efficacy, offering valuable perspectives for understanding ongoing challenges in Nigerian policing.
Written By:
Joseph Augustine Udourioh
BA (Hons) Uyo, MSc (NOUN)
Department of History and International Studies
Faculty of Arts University of Uyo,
Akwa Ibom State