ADEMESO Tosin Success

Abstract

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) remains the primary law enforcement agency tasked with crime prevention and control. This study critically examines the effectiveness of the Nigerian Police Force in crime prevention and control, evaluates the implementation of recent institutional reforms, and identifies the structural, operational, and systemic barriers limiting police effectiveness. This research employed a qualitative systematic review of secondary sources, including peer-reviewed literature, government reports, policy documents, and crime statistics. The study synthesised empirical evidence on policing effectiveness, examined theoretical frameworks relevant to police legitimacy and procedural justice, and analysed case studies from Nigeria and comparable African contexts. The study reveals that while the Police Act 2020, community policing initiatives, and technological innovations represent meaningful reform efforts, their implementation remains inconsistent and ineffective. Critical challenges include chronic underfunding, inadequate personnel training, pervasive corruption, weak accountability mechanisms, and severe deficits in public trust. Community policing implementation shows limited crime reduction outcomes despite increased police visibility. Corruption and misconduct continue to undermine police legitimacy and deter public cooperation. Comprehensive institutional reforms addressing recruitment standards, training programs, resource allocation, anti-corruption initiatives, and accountability frameworks are urgently needed. Building police legitimacy through procedural justice, transparency, and community engagement is essential for effective crime prevention.

   

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Published: 2026

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