Speaking at the passing-out parade of the 2024-2025 Intake One in Banjul on Wednesday, President Barrow congratulated the graduating officers, describing their journey as a “rigorous path of training, sacrifice, and growth.” He commended the recruits’ families, mentors, and instructors for their support and encouraged the new officers to treat policing as “a noble calling, not just a profession.”
“Day and night, under the scorching sun or in heavy downpours, police officers patrol our streets to protect lives and property, allowing citizens to live without fear,” President Barrow said. “You now carry this noble responsibility, and the nation is counting on your loyalty, integrity, and courage.”
The president highlighted that his government remains committed to providing both moral and material support to the police, noting that nine new patrol vehicles were procured in the first half of 2025 to enhance operational capacity.
He stressed the importance of proactive and community policing as key strategies to prevent crime and build public confidence, reiterating his role as Commander-in-Chief in ensuring citizens’ safety.
“Empowering our security services is the surest way to protect residents from preventable harm. The lives of our officers matter just as much as civilian lives,” he stated.
President Barrow linked the ceremony to the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan (2023-2027), which prioritises security sector reform, institutional strengthening, and a results-oriented public service. He explained that the new police training curriculum reflects the country’s democratic transition, incorporating modules on human rights, community policing, gender and child protection, and anti-human trafficking to prepare officers for democratic policing.
The president reminded the recruits that they are the second batch of officers trained under the new democratic dispensation, and urged them to embrace resilience, persistence, and honour in the face of challenges.
“Do not see this as a mere job. It is a calling to uphold the values of our Republic and contribute to the greater good,” he said. “Your actions will strengthen our collective future, and the legacies of those who served before you now rest on your shoulders.”
President Barrow concluded by encouraging the officers to serve with integrity, passion, and a commitment to public service, assuring them that the nation is proud of their achievement and looks forward to their contributions in safeguarding peace and stability.
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