Police Begins Mental Evaluation Of Officers In Lagos As FCID Annex Prioritizes Health Checks

CYRIACUS IZUEKWE 

The Force Criminal Investigation Department, FCID Annex, Lagos has commenced plans to strengthen the health and welfare of its officers with emphasis on regular medical and mental evaluation.

The initiative was highlighted during a working visit by the Force Director of Medical Services, AIG Nkechi Eze, and her team to the FCID Annex in Alagbon, Ikoyi, Lagos on August 24, 2026.

The Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of FCID Annex, AIG Simeon U. Akpanudom, received the medical team and led them on an inspection tour of the medical facilities within the Annex.

According to AIG Akpanudom, the health of Police personnel, especially detectives, directly affects their efficiency, professionalism, and effectiveness in handling complex criminal investigations.

During discussions with the medical team, both AIGs agreed that detectives face unique pressures in the line of duty. From long hours of investigation to exposure to traumatic cases, the need for consistent medical attention has become more important.

AIG Akpanudom stressed that health is wealth and noted that both physical and mental well-being must be prioritized to maintain a productive police force.

He said regular medical assessments will help in early detection of health issues, encourage preventive healthcare, and ensure that officers remain fit to carry out their duties.

Part of the requests made during the meeting included improved access to qualified doctors for routine checks and better enrollment of personnel in the National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS.

The AIG explained that many officers at the Annex require constant medical monitoring due to the nature of their work. He added that a healthier workforce will translate to better service delivery to the public.

In her response, AIG Nkechi Eze thanked the FCID Annex leadership for the warm reception. She stated that her team had earlier inspected medical facilities across various police formations in Lagos State to assess their condition and identify gaps.

She assured that the concerns raised by the FCID Annex would be forwarded to the appropriate departments for action. According to her, the Force Medical Services is committed to working closely with all commands to improve access to quality healthcare for police officers.

AIG Eze also emphasized the importance of mental evaluation for officers, noting that policing in 2026 comes with increasing psychological demands. She said the Force is exploring ways to integrate mental health checks into the regular medical schedule for personnel.

This aligns with the Nigeria Police Force’s broader plan to create a more people-oriented and professional service.

At the end of the visit, AIG Akpanudom presented a plaque of recognition to AIG Eze in appreciation of the medical team’s engagement. Both teams also participated in a group photograph to mark the occasion.

The FCID Annex said it remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote the welfare and professional efficiency of its personnel. The command noted that such collaborations are in line with the vision of the Inspector General of Police to build a healthier and more effective Nigeria Police Force.

Security experts have long advocated for regular medical and psychological screening for security operatives. They argue that officers who are mentally and physically sound are better equipped to serve communities and uphold the rule of law.

With this new push at the FCID Annex, Lagos, stakeholders expect that other police formations across the country will adopt similar health programs for their officers.