From Regimentation to Recognition: Transforming Police Culture for Effective Community Policing in Nigeria

Abstract

Criticisms of stagnation, conservatism, and a lack of adaptability, coupled with societal changes and calls for reform, have led to global demands for policing reform, with community policing emerging as a key component in Nigeria albeit facing challenges. This study delves into the challenges faced by community police officers and explores factors influencing their motivation and commitment to community policing in two state commands. Employing a phenomenological approach, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were employed for data collection. Thematic analysis was utilised to identify patterns within the data. Job content factors hindering officers' commitment to community policing include limited career advancement prospects, lack of reward and recognition, high level of regimentation, lack of training opportunities, non-challenging job responsibilities, and lack of person-job fit. Officers expressed discontentment with irregular promotions, inadequate acknowledgement of successes, and extensive regimentation within the force. Conversely, factors encouraging commitment to community policing include occupational prestige, the existence of oversight and accountability measures, opportunities for idea exchange, and job security. These findings align with Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory and the Person-Environment Fit Theory, highlighting a lack of motivating factors in the job, as well as the disconnect between job requirements and officers' capabilities. The study underscores the necessity for comprehensive training needs analysis and the development of standardized training programs to enhance police training and performance. Additionally, the research suggests a change in the organizational culture of the force to address issues of career advancement, recognition, and regimentation. Further, organizational restructuring is essential for job enrichment and fostering officers’ empowerment. Recommendations and suggestions for future research include examining the impact of organizational culture and leadership styles on police performance, the effectiveness of recruitment and selection processes, and ways to fulfil higher-order motivational needs among police officers.