IMSU unveils Criminology Dept as students urged to fight insecurity
In a landmark development that underscores the institution’s commitment to academic innovation and national relevance, Imo State University (IMSU) Owerri has unveiled a pioneering Department of Criminology and Security Studies
In a landmark development that underscores the institution's commitment to academic innovation and national relevance, Imo State University (IMSU) Owerri has unveiled a pioneering Department of Criminology and Security Studies within the Faculty of Social Sciences.
This visionary addition comes at a critical juncture, as Nigeria grapples with multifaceted security challenges, making the establishment of this department a beacon of hope and a timely intervention in the nation's quest for effective solutions to its pressing security concerns.
This department, the first of its kind in the Southeast region is designed to equip students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills to tackle crime and security threats.
Experts believe that graduates from department recently commissioned by head of security agencies in the state will contribute significantly to national security and public safety, working in law enforcement agencies, security firms, government organizations, and private sector firms.
According to the experts, the students will possess critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills to make informed decisions and respond effectively to security challenges.
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The programme also is tailored towards practical training, internships, and research projects which will prepare students for real-world scenarios, enabling them to analyze crime patterns, develop prevention strategies, and support law enforcement agencies.
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Addressing the students during the inauguration, Imo State Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, praised the establishment of the Department of Criminology and Security Studies at Imo State University (IMSU) Owerri.
He expressed the police Command's willingness to collaborate with the department, offering practical training and attachment opportunities for students.
"The police have a functional Forensic Unit in the Command, with an operational laboratory for analyzing documents and forensic data," he disclosed.
The Commissioner invited students to utilize the police facilities, stating that the door is "widely opened" for collaboration.
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He commended the university for training a new generation of security professionals, saying it "gladdened the heart" to see successors being groomed.
The police boss, represented by DCP Dr. DT Abuja of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), said the command has trained FUTO Forensic Studies students for eight months and is willing to extend the same support to IMSU Criminology and Security Studies students.
" We have well equipped operational laboratory in the Command's Forensic Unit that analyses data. So, you will be the first set to access it. Our doors are opened for you. We are going to interact with you as instructors," he stated.
Also speaking, Controller of Correctional Services, Imo State Command, MO Okolie, said: "I'm impressed with the commissioning of this department, a welcome development. With JAMB's admission numbers, I believe we'll have a crime-free environment."
He suggested students form a club to fight campus vices, saying, "With this department, there'll be no cultism, strikes, or riots."
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Okolie added, "The Correctional Services is the last stop in the criminal justice system. If you're an inmate, it's your fault. Your parents sent you to school to excel, not indulge in crime."
He urged students to spread the word that "crime is bad" and promised the Correctional Services' support: "We'll ensure you're trained well. Consult us; we'll help."
Also, Commander, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA), Imo State Command, represented by Assistant State Commander, Emeka Opara expressed excitement about the department's establishment, saying, "I am very elated to be here at this juncture. This department is important, especially at this time when security is crucial."
He encouraged students, "I urge you to be dedicated and play your part in restoring security. Remove vices like crime from your environment."
