The Nigerian police force have once more been asked to rise to the current realities facing Nigeria as well as be mindful of the rights of the ordinary citizens while carrying out their duties.

The admonition came from President Goodluck Jonathan at the commissioning of some police equipment on Monday as part of activities marking the police week in the Federal Capital Territory.

The President called on the officers of the Nigerian Police Force to make maintenance and training of the police personnel and equipment, a top priority, pledging that his administration will provide a helicopter to the 36 states in the federation to enable them promptly fight crimes in the country.

The event which held at the Eagle Square, tagged ‘The Police Week’ was last held 37 years ago and the organizers say it has become necessary to revive it.

He called on Nigerians to lend their full support to the Nigerian police describing them as noble men and women who have dedicated themselves to the protection of lives and property in the country and must be treated with some dignity.

The President also took time to inspect the police guards on parade as officers of the police force were at their best.

They marched, displayed and paraded communication equipment, helicopters, armored cars, anti-bomb vehicles and patrol vans.

President Jonathan asked for a minute silence for the repose of the soles lost on the line of duty

For the Inspector General of Police; M.D. Abubakar, this signals a new beginning for the force.

The event attracted service chiefs and ministers.